Flood insurance now available through FEMA sponsored website

PHILADELPHIA — If tidal flooding over the last several weeks has convinced you it's time to get flood insurance, FEMA wants you to know that the National Flood Insurance Program has a new tool where the purchase of a policy can be accomplished entirely online.

Floodsmart.gov is available to anyone living in one of the almost 22,700 participating NFIP communities which locally covers all of Somerset County.

By making it easier to purchase flood insurance, FEMA is empowering property owners to ensure their own resilience and reduce dependence on federal assistance.

"I've seen firsthand how floodwaters devastate American communities," said FEMA Administrator Cameron Hamilton. "We are making it easier for people to reduce their financial risk and protect what they've spent their lives building. With this new digital tool, you can get a quote and buy a flood insurance policy in a matter of minutes.

"This innovation demonstrates how FEMA is working to cut bureaucracy and deliver results to the American people."

Property owners can get a quote on Floodsmart.gov after providing basic information about the building to be insured. Once a quote is generated, you will have the option to purchase a policy online or through an insurance agent.

If you choose to purchase online, you can do so on Floodsmart.gov in just a few minutes. If you choose to purchase through a local or national carrier, you can share your quote details with your insurance agent, or Floodsmart.gov will offer the contact information of three licensed state insurance agents.

The new self-service tool is consistent with the insurance industry's shift toward digital engagement and aims to make it easier for more Americans to access flood coverage.

Floods are the most common and costliest natural disaster in the United States. Flood insurance provides financial protection against the unexpected to help Americans be better prepared, self-sufficient and confident in their ability to safeguard their future.

In Maryland there are approximately 61,000 policyholders.

To learn more about flood insurance, get a quote and purchase a policy, visit www.floodsmart.gov/policy-quote.

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