Four Steps to Understanding Whether Your Business Needs Flood Insurance

6/27/2018 (Permalink)

A natural disaster could wreak havoc for your Kansas City, MO, business. Your commercial insurance may cover most natural damages, such as from wind or heavy rain, but when flooding occurs, you'll need special flood coverage. How can you tell if your business really requires flood insurance?

1. Ask Your Provider Whether Flooding Is Covered.

Many commercial insurance policies do not cover flooding. However, you can learn more about how and where to get this type of protection from federal government pages, such as floodsmart.gov.

2. Understand What the Policy Covers.

There are many situations that could lead to flood damage. For example, if you live in an area with a lot of snowfall, that melting snow could lead to overflow in the bodies of water around your home. That, in turn, could lead to flooded basements. Heavy rainfall could saturate the ground and expose your business to damage from overflowing roadways. Many flood insurance policies cover:

• Essential systems, including electricity, plumbing, heating, cooling, fuel, solar energy, and fuel
• Appliances, including portable air conditioners and refrigerators
• Carpeting and window treatments
• Permanently installed cabinets, bookcases, and wall treatments
• Foundation walls, stairways, anchorage systems
• Detached parking garage
• Certain personal property and valuable

3. Protect What Insurance Doesn't Cover.

If you have items stored in the basement of your business, your commercial insurance policy probably won't cover them, even if the policy is specifically for flooding. There's usually a cap for insurance; this number is generally higher for businesses than for residences.

4. Talk to Clean Up Professionals.

If your Kansas City, MO, business has been affected by flooding, a restoration professional can help you get back to your regular routine. The work completed by these professionals may be covered by your flood insurance policy. Before disaster strikes, discuss your options with the restoration company. The workers may also have other advice for you to speed the recovery process.

Have you been affected by flooding in the past? The right preparation can help you sleep well at night, knowing your business, employees, and properties are protected and covered by the right commercial insurance.

For more information, please visit us at http://www.SERVPROclaycounty.com/.