Forecasters predict an above-average 2021 Atlantic hurricane season, with 18 named storms, eight hurricanes, and four major hurricanes expected. Now is the time to review your insurance coverage and prepare your property for potential storm damage—contact Murphy Insurance for guidance.
Various insurance policies cover different types of water damage, with homeowners and renters insurance typically including protection for burst pipes, wind-driven rain, and damage from roof ice dams. While standard policies may cover top-down water sources like rainfall, additional coverage such as sewer backup riders may be necessary for certain situations.
In the event of a flood, it is critical to protect yourself, your family, and your property. To do so, there are many preventative and protective measures you can take.
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Flood preparedness goes beyond securing your home—it also means being financially ready. Many property owners underestimate their flood risk and the costs associated with flood damage. Investing in flood insurance and using tools like the Interactive Cost of Flooding Tool and the Animated Flood Risk Scenario Tool can help you assess potential impacts. Stay informed and take proactive steps to protect your family and finances before disaster strikes.
Governor Deval Patrick has swiftly approved House Bill No. H-3783, known as “An Act Relative to Flood Insurance” (Chapter 177 of the Acts of 2014). This new law, effective immediately, bars creditors from mandating certain types of flood insurance for residential property purchasers or owners.
Amid Hurricane Arthur affecting the Atlantic coast, New England residents can find solace in forecasts suggesting the storm will remain offshore, potentially limiting damage to Fourth of July festivities. However, it’s crucial to remember to update insurance coverage well before an approaching hurricane, as insurance companies typically restrict changes to property coverage limits when a storm is imminent.
Hurricane Sandy struck the East Coast on October 29, 2012, causing widespread devastation. A year later, coastal communities were still grappling with the aftermath, with many families and businesses facing ongoing challenges in rebuilding and financial recovery.
As of October 1, 2013, changes to the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) under the Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act are being phased in. These reforms aim to make the program more financially stable by phasing out subsidized rates and aligning premiums with actual flood risk. Not all policyholders will be affected immediately, but rate increases—especially on secondary homes, businesses, and repeatedly flooded properties—are underway. Be informed and prepared if you own property in a flood-prone area.
With the threat of an active hurricane season looming, now is the time to review your insurance coverage and prepare your property. Don’t wait until a storm is imminent—protect your home or business from wind and flood damage before it’s too late.
Sandy’s impact was devastating, with flood waters inflicting the most severe damage. Standard insurance policies typically don’t cover flood-related losses, necessitating a separate flood insurance policy. Despite the risk, many opt out due to cost concerns or underestimation of the potential threat.