Wisconsinites Urged To Consider Flood Insurance in Wake of Record Rain & Snow of 2019

MADISON, Wis. – During Flood Insurance Awareness Week the Wisconsin Office of the Commissioner of Insurance (OCI) and the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) are urging Wisconsinites to protect their homes and businesses from financial losses due to flooding.

“Just one inch of water in a home can cause thousands of dollars in damage. Last year was the wettest on record in Wisconsin,” Insurance Commissioner Mark Afable said. “This week, we are encouraging Wisconsin consumers to learn more about the importance and benefits of flood insurance so they can be sure that they have the financial protection they need before the snow starts melting and the rain starts falling.”

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) anticipates an increased likelihood of spring flooding throughout Wisconsin in 2020 due to melting snowpack sitting upon already saturated soil. Typical business and homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover damage from floods, while federal disaster assistance is only available to flood victims if an official declaration has been issued. Even then, that federal aid is available only to those who qualify.

“Flooding is one of the most common natural disasters in the United States and yet only 15 percent of homeowners have flood insurance. We want everyone who experiences flooding to have the chance to rebuild as soon as possible,” said DNR Secretary-designee Preston D. Cole.  

A flood insurance policy can provide coverage with or without a disaster declaration and can help homeowners, renters, and business owners impacted by flooding recover faster. Homeowners in Wisconsin can buy a flood insurance policy through either the NFIP, a federal program enabling property owners in participating communities to purchase insurance protection against losses from flooding, or through a private carrier. Consumers should contact their local insurance agent or visit www.floodsmart.gov for more information about these opportunities.

For more information about flood insurance, please visit www.floodsmart.gov or the DNR’s Flood Insurance webpage.