MAIN Your Money Insurance Flood Insurance

When comparing flood insurers experts agree that of the most information to gather is how quickly an insurance company can resolve a claim. This point was dramatically driven home in 2005 when flooding caused by Hurricane Katrina resulted in a notoriously slow response from local, state and government agencies.

Adding to the misery was the common misconception by homeowners - who assumed that they were insured against flooding by their hurricane insurance which, sadly, only covers the resultant wind damage.

The top insurance companies in the U.S. - perhaps the one already handling your auto or homeowners insurance - offer flood insurance subsidized by the government under the Federal Insurance Administration as part of FEMA, the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

FEMA also regulates the National Flood Insurance Program which oversees policies by local communities who must adhere to flood management guidelines or risk losing government support and insurance subsidies before and after a major flood.

Flood insurance costs range from $233 - $3000 per year, depending on where you live and what level of coverage you elect. This may include everything from basic protection against structural damage, to special riders that cover valuable artwork or jewelry.

On the Web, discover more on the topic with information from government agencies as well as tips and advice from consumer guides, fact sheets and media reports on how to protect your home against a major flood ....

Floodsmart.gov - U.S. government consumer guide and everything you ever wanted to know about flood insurance in America including news and information on purchasing flood insurance, preferred insurers, filing a claim, plus interactive tools and risk assessment guides.

Who needs flood insurance? - Facts and information from Insure.com on choosing and buying flood insurance, flood zone risks, related links and contact information, glossary, flood preparation tips, FAQ.

Flood insurance fast facts - Special report from CNNMoney with a good overview of the current state of flood insurance in the U.S. and how it came about, details on coverage, info and stats, related links.

Flood Insurance 101 - Basic tutorial from The Travelers including steps to buying a flood insurance policy, waiting period rules, coverage limits, deductibles and related information.

Storms underscore value of flood insurance - MSNBC report with the spotlight ondestruction wrought by Katrina and Rita with interviews, facts and information on the national program urging more homeowners to seek flood insurance protection.

also see related feature -> Repairs & Renovating After a Flood

Also see -> Earthquake Insurance | Hurricane Insurance