Hurricane Preparation
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16 • HURRICANE PREPARATION GUIDE • 2023 Did you know that your homeowner's insurance does not cover damage from flooding? Did you know that everywhere in the state of Florida is in a flood zone? It is the level of risk that differs from area to area. Flooding is the costliest natural disaster in America. Just one inch of water can cause up to $25,000 in damage. Flooding is considered any ground water that enters your home. Flooding can happen anywhere at any time. Poor drainage systems, summer storms, neighborhood construction and broken water mains can all result in flooding. Flood insurance is a separate policy that can cover buildings, contents or both. The National Flood Insurance Program provides flood insurance to property owners, condominium tenants, renters and businesses. Flood insurance is available to anyone living in the City of Venice and unincorporated Sarasota County, as we both participate in the NFIP. To purchase NFIP flood insurance, call your insurance agent. If you need help finding a NFIP provider, go to FloodSmart.gov/flood-insur- ance-provider or call the NFIP direct at 877-336-2627. Plan ahead because there is a 30-day waiting period for flood insurance to take effect. The City also participates in the Community Rating System, which provides a 20 percent discount on most policies. Check your declarations page for the "CRS" discount. Private insurance company policies do not receive the CRS discount, as the provider must be part of the NFIP. Insurance premi- ums are based on a number of factors, such as the current building elevation, choosing a higher deductible, or elevating your home. One way to possibly lower the premium is to provide an elevation certificate. Check venicegov.com, keyword search "elevation certificate," to see if the City has one on file for your home, or contact a local surveyor. For residential properties, you can secure coverage up to $250,000 for the building and $100,000 for the building contents. For com- mercial properties, you can secure coverage FLOOD Insurance matters By Christina Grimes PHOTO PROVIDED Snook Haven Restaurant, coined as having an Old Florida feel, was submerged in water as the Myakka River flooded after Hurricane Ian. See FLOOD | 17 SUN PHOTO BY JOSEPH JOHN ORCHULLI II Seeing trees that had fallen on cars was a common sight in the area. SUN PHOTO BY ELAINE ALLEN - EMRICH Flood waters remained high in North Port after Hurricane Ian struck the area.