Bakersfield California Flood Insurance

Bakersfield, California. When many people hear that name, their thoughts turn to those of temperate weather, bright sunshine, and a vibrant city. To be sure, Bakersfield is located in one of the more beautiful corners of the world, but no matter where one lives, there is always the potential for adverse conditions. Bakersfield is no different, and property owners should be cautioned about the flood risk that the city is under and take appropriate action to protect themselves and their property.

When assessing the flood risk for a property, there are a few key details to know. First: Is the property in a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA)? These swaths of land are known to be at risk for flooding and have high costs associated with flood damage. Second: In what “zone” is a property in a SFHA located? Depending on where a property is located and what kind of hydrological studies the federal government has performed, areas can be classified in one of several different zones. These zones tell potential property owners and insurers how likely the property is to flood, how much water could accumulate, and even what would be a likely cause for the flood.

Much of the city of Bakersfield is not considered to be a SFHA, and is classified as Zone X.  In this case, the Zone X classification can mean that the area is not prone to flooding, flood waters would be less than one foot in depth if they did occur, or that the immediate area is protected by a levee and is therefore unlikely to be affected by floods. However, areas along the Kern River ARE located within a SFHA and are classified as Zone AE. Property owners in these areas are required to purchase flood insurance for their homes and businesses.

Property owners in Bakersfield who are looking to protect themselves against high flood-related costs and buy flood insurance now have two options. Traditionally, flood insurance has only been available for purchase through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Communities in high-risk areas create flood management plans that reduce the risk for flood-related damage, and property owners in those communities are able to buy flood insurance with rates that vary based on a number of factors.

New to the insurance market is a second option for Bakersfield residents- the National Catastrophe Flood Insurance Program (NCIP). These policies are underwritten by private insurance companies and offer a broader range of benefits to potential insurees. Among the benefits are lower premium rates, faster turn-around time for policies to take effect, and greater amounts of coverage for the contents of a property. This program is available in only a handful of states at this time (including California), but is expanding at a considerable rate.

While floods are the last thing on the minds of many home and business owners, the reality remains that floods are a threat and that expensive damages may not be covered by a typical insurance policy. For this reason, residents of Bakersfield, CA should carefully consider purchasing a flood insurance policy to protect their belongings. Contact us now for more information about Bakersfield California Flood Insurance!!

All information is general in nature and is intended to provide guidance only. It is up to you to request specific coverage options, the agency and agent do not bear this responsibility. Always read the policy if there is a questions about coverage or a claim. If any information herein should conflict with your actual policy’s specific language, the policy language will be controlling.

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