Clearlake California Flood Insurance

Clearlake, California is nearly perfect. Mountains loom in the distance, while the namesake body of water lies still and pristine along city limits. The city is large enough to boast plenty of amenities for comfortable, convenient living; while the population remains at a level that fosters a close knit, small-town feel. These are just some of the reasons why individuals would choose to own property in Clearlake. However, there are other important considerations that individuals should take into account when considering owning property in the city, including flood insurance coverage.

For a city located next to a large body of water, Clearlake has a relatively low risk of flooding. According to maps from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), only a very limited number of tracts immediately adjacent to Clear Lake are considered to be in a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA). Property adjacent to the Burns Valley Creek is located in a SFHA and is the most likely property in the city to be flooded. Most property owners in Clearlake will find themselves in Zone X, while those located along the creek and Clear Lake are considered Zone AE.

What does all this information mean? Homes and businesses located within the SFHAs are required to be covered by flood insurance. Property owners in these areas will need to make a decision on what type of coverage best fits their needs and purchase accordingly. Individuals with property located outside the SFHA may be at less risk for flood-related damage, but should still gather important policy information and determine whether or not the protection that flood insurance provides is important to their business.

Clearlake home and business owners have two options when it comes to purchasing flood insurance for their property. The first is to purchase a traditional policy through the federal government. The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) has been around for many decades, providing coverage to owners of property in high-risk areas. Premiums are based upon data collected from flood maps and other factors, including whether or not modifications have been made to the property to decrease future flood risk.

A second option for flood insurance coverage is to purchase a policy through the National Catastrophe Flood Insurance Program, or NCIP. This program is backed by private underwriters and is fairly new to the insurance market. NCIP policies are typically more affordable than other insurance policies on the market, and also provide more financial coverage. Another benefit to the NCIP is turnaround time. With many policies, coverage does not go into effect until thirty days after the policy is approved. However, the NCIP policies go into effect in only fifteen days after approval.

Clearlake, California boasts many small-town amenities in a beautiful, natural setting. Floods may not be a frequent occurrence in the area, and may not be widespread even if they do occur, but the fact remains that it is a possibility. Property owners in Clearlake should take steps to protect themselves from high flood damage-related costs now by finding a policy that is both affordable and comprehensive. Contact us now for more information about the Clearlake 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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