14 Jul McFarland California Flood Insurance
Located in Kern County, McFarland, CA is quite literally one of the sunniest places in the United States. On average, the sun shines brightly over this city in the San Joaquin Valley at least three hundred days per year. All this sunshine creates the perfect growing conditions for many different types of crops, which simultaneously support the local economy and create a picturesque backdrop. With so many naturally wonderful attributes, it seems unlikely that anything could upset this perfect setting. But as we all know, there is no such thing as “perfect” on this earth.
Like many other cities and towns in California, parts of McFarland are considered to be a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). This designation means that life goes on as normal most of the time, but during a 30 year period, homes and businesses in McFarland have a 1-in-4 chance of being inundated by flood waters. SFHA designations are given to communities that are at risk for flooding and whose government takes steps to mitigate flood risks in the area. Having the SFHA designation is important for residents of McFarland, as it means they can qualify for lower-priced flood premiums.
Quick Flood Facts about McFarland
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As mentioned above, only parts of McFarland are part of the SFHA. Areas on the eastern half of the city are most at risk for flooding, and are considered Zone A and Zone AH flood risks. Zone types are used to explain if FEMA has conducted hydraulic evaluation in the area, and how deep floodwaters could be in the case of flooding. Zone A means that the area is at risk for flooding, but there have been no official studies done to determine the root cause or depth of flood waters. Zone AH indicates that flood waters would be one to three feet in depth and result from ponding-related issues.
All homes and businesses in the SFHAs of McFarland are required by law to be covered with a flood insurance policy, and locations outside of the SFHAs are strongly encouraged to obtain coverage. Unbeknownst to many individuals, standard homeowners and business insurance policies do not cover flood related damages, leaving the door open for excessively high flood damage costs. The good news in this situation is that property owners have two options for purchasing flood insurance policies that will protect their assets.
The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) is one place to obtain a policy. These policies are offered by the federal government through local and regional insurance agencies. Among the features of these policies are: activation thirty days after approval, premiums based on location and adjustments made to the property, set coverage to the structure only.
Another option for flood insurance coverage is the National Catastrophe Flood Insurance Program (NCIP). The NCIP is a relatively new program, underwritten by Lloyd’s of London. Some property owners find these policies more accommodating, due to the activation taking place only fifteen days after approval, higher coverage amounts, and coverage for items like decks and porches.
Property owners in McFarland, California should take precautions and protect their assets by obtaining a flood insurance policy sooner rather than later. The risk of floods in the area may be low, but it only takes one instance of flooding for damage-related costs to quickly skyrocket to unmanageable heights. Taking action now will provide peace of mind and protection down the road. Contact us now for more information about McFarland 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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