The Insurance Department this week reminded Pennsylvanians of the importance of having flood insurance to protect homes and businesses.

Excessive rain, inadequate drainage or dam failure can cause thousands of dollars in damage, so it's important that homeowners and business owners discuss flood insurance with their insurance professionals as soon as possible.

Standard homeowner policies do not include coverage for flood damage, and there's a 30-day waiting period before a policy becomes effective.

Information about how to buy flood insurance can be found at the official website of the National Flood Insurance Program.

The Insurance Department is strongly urging consumers to carefully prepare to make sure their property is insured:

· Learn the facts about insurance. Different policies are available for homeowners, renters and condominium owners. Talk to an insurance professional about the types of coverage needed;

· Ask an insurance professional about insurance options and possible gaps in coverage;

· Learn the facts about flood insurance. A standard homeowner's policy does not include flood protection; and

· Take an inventory of your property and record model numbers and serial numbers and store the information off the premises, such as with a relative or in a safe-deposit box.

The Insurance Department publishes a free brochure -- "Are You Ready if a Disaster Strikes?" -- which provides strategies for consumers whose homes and businesses might suffer weather-related property damage.

If a weather-related disaster does occur, homeowners should:

· Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to arrange a visit from a claim adjuster;

· Photograph, video and make a list of the damage before doing any repairs;

· Protect your home from further damage by making temporary repairs until your insurance company is able to help. Save receipts for materials purchased for repairs. Do not throw away damaged property until the claims adjuster tells you to do so;

· Do not have permanent repairs made until your insurance company has inspected the property and you have reached an agreement on the cost of repairs. Permanent repairs made before an adjuster sees the damage could result in a denied claim;

· Check with your agent or company before calling the tree removal service as removal costs may also be covered. Also, you may be responsible if one of your trees has fallen on a neighbor's property; and

· Review the terms of your policy for what is or is not covered if a claim is denied. You may file an appeal to your insurance company's claim manager. If questions remain, consumers should contact the Insurance Department.

The Department is available to answer questions and investigate complaints concerning all types of insurance coverage.

To obtain a free copy of "Are You Ready if a Disaster Strikes?" call the automated consumer hotline at 1-877-881-6388, or call any one of the Department's Bureau of Consumer Services at: Harrisburg 717-787-2317; Philadelphia 215-560-2630; or Pittsburgh 412-565-5020.

3/31/2006