Flood damage control procedures & checklist: if your building has been flooded, this article series provides an easy to understand guide for flood damage assessment , setting priorities of action, safety, and we provide special information about avoiding or minimizing mold damage. This  Building Flood Response Checklist  sets priorities for what to do to protect your building from mold contamination after flooding from a burst pipe or from rising waters and area flooding. These are quick, simple steps to minimize mold damage in a flooded building . This is the first in our series of building flood damage articles on steps to take to safely enter and repair homes or other buildings after area flooding due to hurricanes, rising floodwaters, burst pipes, or other water flooding. We discuss safety for people entering flooded buildings, steps to preserve and protect the building from further damage after it has been flooded, how to get mechanical systems up and running again, evalua

  Depending on what's damaged, two types of coverage within a   homeowners insurance policy   may apply. Dwelling Coverage Dwelling coverage  helps pay for damage to the structure of your home if it's damaged by a covered peril. So, if a pipe suddenly bursts and damages a wall, dwelling coverage may help pay for repairs.   Personal Property Coverage Personal property coverage  helps pay for damage to your belongings if they are damaged by a covered risk. So, if a  burst pipe  results in a drenched computer or bookcase, personal property coverage may help pay to repair or replace the damaged items. Keep in mind that a deductible will likely apply before your coverage kicks in. Also, coverage limits may apply. Read your policy to brush up on how much coverage your policy provides. Your agent can help you adjust your coverage to fit your needs or answer questions about your policy. DOES HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE COVER WATER DAMAGE FROM LEAKING PLUMBING? Homeowners insurance may help co

Flood insurance is generally available to people in communities that participate in the  National Flood Insurance Program  (NFIP). Flood insurance policies can be purchased through  local insurance agents  by homeowners, business owners and renters who want protection for their homes, buildings and belongings. (Landlords can buy separate flood insurance policies to help protect the home.)   WHAT DOES FLOOD INSURANCE COVER? So, what does a flood policy help protect? FEMA says you can purchase coverage to help protect your home, your personal belongings, or both. Here are some of the basics for these two types of coverage: Building property coverage What it helps protect : The physical structure of your home and its foundation; plumbing and electrical systems; central air and heating systems; attached bookcases, cabinets and paneling; and a detached garage (other detached structures need their own policy). How it typically pays out : Replacement cost basis (what it would take to repair t