The Critical Importance of Offering Both Primary and Excess Flood Insurance to Every Client

Our hearts break for the families who have lost loved ones, their homes, and their lifelong belongings in the wake of Hurricane Hell-ene. The devastation is overwhelming, and as a country, we all need to come together—praying for those affected and doing everything we can to help our fellow Americans in need. That’s what this country does best: supporting one another in times of crisis.

That said, it’s clearer than ever that comprehensive flood coverage is not just a precaution—it's an absolute necessity. The widespread flooding has left countless homeowners and businesses grappling with severe financial losses, underscoring the urgent need for more robust and inclusive flood insurance solutions.

Why Primary and Excess Flood Insurance Are Essential

1. Comprehensive Protection: While primary flood insurance offers crucial protection against direct physical losses caused by flooding, its coverage limits often fall short when faced with major catastrophes. That’s where excess flood insurance becomes essential, providing additional layers of protection that go beyond the primary policy. With this combination, clients can be confident that they’re covered for even the most severe flood damages.
2. Financial Security: Without proper flood insurance, the financial aftermath of a flood can be crippling. Repair costs, replacements, and temporary housing can quickly add up, leaving many without the resources to rebuild their lives. Offering both primary and excess flood insurance gives clients the financial security they need to recover fully and quickly from devastating flood events.
3. Peace of Mind: Knowing their property is fully protected gives clients much-needed peace of mind, especially those living in flood-prone regions. This level of reassurance is invaluable and can significantly reduce stress, particularly in times of heightened weather risks or following recent flood events like Hurricane Helene.
4. Risk Mitigation: By proactively offering both primary and excess flood insurance, agencies can help clients avoid significant financial losses. This approach not only shields clients from unanticipated costs but also strengthens their confidence in the agency, increasing client satisfaction and fostering long-term relationships.

The Wake-Up Call of Hurricane Helene

Hurricane Helene has tragically become one of the most devastating hurricanes since Katrina, causing widespread destruction across multiple states. From storm surges to severe inland flooding, the damage has been catastrophic. Even more distressing is the fact that many affected homeowners and business owners were underprepared, lacking adequate flood insurance to shield them from the full extent of their losses.

Making Flood Insurance a Best Practice

The lessons learned from Hurricane Helene make it abundantly clear that offering both primary and excess flood insurance should become a standard practice for every insurance agency. It’s not just about serving clients within designated flood zones anymore—flooding can occur anywhere, often without warning. Educating clients about the importance of comprehensive flood insurance, regardless of their flood zone, is critical. Agencies should ensure they provide clear, accessible information and make it easy for clients to obtain the right level of coverage.

Conclusion: Preparing Clients for the Next Storm

The devastation caused by Hurricane Helene is a powerful reminder of the need for thorough flood insurance coverage. By offering primary and excess flood insurance to all clients—whether or not they’re in a high-risk flood zone—agencies can better protect their clients’ financial well-being. The peace of mind that comes with knowing they’re fully covered is priceless. Let’s make comprehensive flood insurance the new standard, ensuring that every client is prepared for whatever the future may bring.

If you’d like a customizable flood waiver template that includes coverage for building, contents, and excess flood, and allows you to add your own logo, feel free to reach out. This template can help ensure your clients are fully informed and protected.

Stay safe, stay informed!