Many homeowners unprotected from destructive flooding in Carolinas

Residents in South Carolina will face a few more uncertain days waiting for floodwaters from stressed dams and swollen rivers to recede.

A combination of tropical moisture from Hurricane Joaquin and a slow-moving low pressure system produced one to two feet of historic rainfall across the Carolinas over the weekend.

U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham warned the disaster could “break the bank” of federal emergency funds, potentially costing more than $1 billion, CBS News reported. 

It’s estimated that only 10% of homeowners in South Carolina purchased flood coverage leaving many people unprotected, according to the Insurance Information Institute.

Even though flood and wind damage are frequently excluded from standard homeowners policies, there are ways to help protect yourself and your property.

Flood coverage is available in a separate policy from both private insurers and the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), which covers up to $250,000

The NFIP provides coverage for up to $250,000 for the structure of the home and $100,000 for personal possessions, with premiums starting as low as $129 a year for residences in moderate-low risk areas.

Additionally, there are options on the comprehensive portion of auto insurance that provides coverage for flood-related damages.