--- title: Reevaluating Flood Insurance description: Do I need flood insurance? --- - [** ](https://twitter.com/clarkesampson) - [** ](https://www.linkedin.com/company/clarke-%26-sampson-inc) - [** ](https://www.facebook.com/clarkeandsampson) [**703-683-6601](tel:17036836601) [     Client Portal](https://portal.csr24.com/mvc/6601690) [![clarke&sampson](https://blog.clarkeandsampson.com/hubfs/Clarkeandsampson_November2018%20Theme/images/logo.png "clarke&sampson")](http://www.clarkeandsampson.com/) - [** ](https://twitter.com/clarkesampson) - [** ](https://www.linkedin.com/company/clarke-%26-sampson-inc) - [** ](https://www.facebook.com/clarkeandsampson) [**703-683-6601](tel:17036836601) [     Client Portal](https://portal.csr24.com/mvc/6601690) # Clarke & Sampson Blog # Reevaluating Flood Insurance Scott Jefferson | Saturday, February 1, 2020 Share | Facebook Twitter [Email ](mailto:?body=https://blog.clarkeandsampson.com/blog/bid/338471/reevaluating-flood-insurance) For many property owners, flood insurance seems optional or unnecessary. The mortgage company doesn’t require it, the house is paid off, the property isn’t in a flood zone – these are a few common justifications for not carrying flood insurance. Unfortunately, many property owners using these justifications are also finding themselves literally underwater. The frequency and severity of storms and weather patterns is changing, particularly with regard to hurricanes. Hurricane Sandy perhaps highlights this best with an estimated $20 to $30 billion in uninsured flood losses (Wall Street Journal). Given our recent flood related experiences, we believe it is time for all property owners to reconsider flood insurance. Flood insurance covers the insured building, foundation, electrical systems, plumbing, appliances, heating and air, personal belongings, household items, and debris removal, just to name a few. It is important to note that flood damage is **NOT **covered by your homeowners policy. Flood Facts: -Flood policies start at $129 per year, but average $600 per year. -The average flood insurance claim is $30,000. -25% of claims filed within the National Flood Program occur within moderate-to-low risk areas. -Flood insurance takes effect 30 days after purchase, so it is important to buy before the threat of a storm or high waters. -Floods are the most costly natural disasters in the United States. -Over the course of a 30 year mortgage, there is a 26% chance the property will be damaged by flooding. In the aftermath ofSandy, we encourage you to recalculate your risks. Start by having a conversation with an agent to discuss your options. Get a flood insurance quote, and weigh the costs of a policy against your aversion to risk. Always remember that Clarke & Sampson is here for you, from guidance and servicing to claims management. Contact Jan Aller or Scott Jefferson today at 703-683-6601. Share | Facebook Twitter [Email ](mailto:?body=https://blog.clarkeandsampson.com/blog/bid/338471/reevaluating-flood-insurance) #### Contact Clarke & Sampson, Inc Office: 703-683-6601 Fax: 703-739-8967 228 S.Washington St. Ste. 200 Alexandria, VA 22314 [Send an Email](mailto:sjefferson@clarkeandsampson.com) - [** ](https://www.facebook.com/clarkeandsampson) - [** ](https://twitter.com/clarkesampson) - [** ](https://www.linkedin.com/company/clarke-%26-sampson-inc) The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. Some of this material was developed and produced by Agency Revolution to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. Agency Revolution is not affiliated with the named representative, broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright 2018 Agency Revolution. [Privacy Statement](http://www.clarkeandsampson.com//legal) | [Contact Us](http://www.clarkeandsampson.com/contact-us) ![Trusted Choice](https://blog.clarkeandsampson.com/hubfs/Clarkeandsampson_November2018%20Theme/images/1.jpg)  ![Independent Insurance Agent](https://blog.clarkeandsampson.com/hubfs/Clarkeandsampson_November2018%20Theme/images/2.jpg)  ![PIA](https://blog.clarkeandsampson.com/hubfs/Clarkeandsampson_November2018%20Theme/images/3.jpg)  ![Google](https://blog.clarkeandsampson.com/hubfs/Clarkeandsampson_November2018%20Theme/images/4.png)