Disaster Preparedness and Recovery – Spring Risks

Be Weather Ready

Spring in Connecticut can bring heavy rain, flooding, and severe weather. Taking time to prepare and reviewing your insurance coverage can help reduce the financial impact if your home or property is damaged.

Before severe weather occurs, review your homeowners, renters, or condominium insurance policy with your agent or insurance company. Make sure you understand what your policy covers and confirm that your coverage limits meet your needs.

What’s The Risk

Heavy rain during the spring can lead to flooding, including in areas that may not typically experience flood events. Preparing for potential flooding is an important step in protecting your home and personal property.

Most standard homeowners, renters, and business insurance policies do not cover flood damage. Flood coverage is generally available through policies backed by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), and private flood insurance options may also be available in Connecticut.

Fast Facts About Flooding

  • Even one inch of water can cause significant property damage.
  • Flash floods can produce walls of water 10 to 20 feet high.
  • Just two feet of floodwater can carry away a vehicle.
  • New development and changing conditions can increase flood risk in an area.
  • Flood insurance policies typically take effect 30 days after purchase.

Steps to Prepare: Taking a few steps before severe weather occurs can help protect your property and make recovery easier.

  • Review your insurance policies to understand what is covered.
  • Create a home inventory of personal belongings.
  • Develop a family emergency or evacuation plan.
  • Assemble an emergency preparedness kit.
  • Keep copies of insurance policies and insurer contact information in a safe and accessible place.

After a Flood: If your home or property experiences flood damage

  • Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to begin the claims process.
  • Take photos of the damage before beginning cleanup.
  • Do not make permanent repairs until your insurer has inspected the damage.
  • Keep a record of conversations and communications with your insurance company during the claims process.

Remember: When disaster strikes, we've got your back. Contact CID if you have difficulty reaching your insurer, have a claims dispute or have questions on any insurance-related topic.

Contact Us:
Phone: 800-203-3447
Toll-Free: 860-297-3900
Email: insurance@ct.gov
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