Why do I need Florida Flood Insurance?

The federal government considers floods the nation's most common natural disaster. They strike every state and leave homeowners with huge repair costs. But most homeowners insurance policies don't protect from those losses.

Why? Because typical homeowners insurance doesn't cover flood damage.

Those policies may provide protection for water damage when it comes through a hole in the roof and or from wind-driven rain. But coverage doesn't extend to damage caused by water from a storm-swollen river, torrential rainfall or other flood-inducing conditions.

Homeowners are required to purchase flood insurance if they have a federally backed mortgage and live in a high-risk flood area as identified by the National Flood Insurance Program.

For others, though, it's optional.

With premiums starting as low as $171 a year for a home and its contents, it's coverage homeowners may want to consider

Buying Insurance: Agency vs. Direct

When buying insurance for yourself or for your family, you pretty much have two different options: You can either buy insurance through a Florida Insurance Agency or you can buy directly from an insurance provider.

When buying from an agent, there are many advantages.

You get the chance to work directly with an assigned insurance agent who is local to your location and they may be someone you actually know personally. Many insurance agents operate in the same town that they live in.

Having an agent really works in your favor when crisis hits.

Whether it is a car crash, a flood or whatever mishap leads to you needing your insurance coverage, having an agent to work directly with is a great way to move through the red tape. A good agent will fight for you and get you the money you need from your insurance company.

Agents can be your one stop shop for your insurance needs.

Just as many large companies offer bundling services, agents also may be able to help you out with a great deal if you buy multiple insurance products from them.