Floods are the most common natural disaster in the United States.

The average annual amount of U.S. flood losses in the last 10 years (1996 through 2005) was more than $2.4 billion and since 1978, the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) has paid $31.4 billion for flood insurance claims and related costs (as of March 31). Also, in a high-risk area, a home has a 26% chance of being damaged by a flood during the course of a 30-year mortgage, compared to a 9% chance of fire.

Did you know that floods and flash floods happen in all 50 states? Hurricanes, winter storms, and snowmelt are common causes of flooding. There are varying risks, depending on the location of the property. People who live in or around new land development may have increased flood risk, especially if the construction changes natural runoff paths. Also, your customers may not know that Federal disaster assistance is usually a loan that must be paid back with interest.