When you buy flood insurance, you may be surprised to learn that coverage begins at a later date. This is known as a waiting period. Because we at BES & Associates Insurance get this question frequently, we’re explaining what a flood insurance waiting period is and why it matters.
Why Is There a Waiting Period for Flood Insurance?
A waiting period stops flood insurance companies from allowing people to purchase last-minute policies. If someone can buy and activate flood insurance during or right before a flood, that insults the policyholders who followed directions. The waiting period keeps the process fair. Should you purchase flood insurance after the flood, the waiting period covers the next storm or hurricane, not the current one.
How long is the waiting period?
It depends on your situation. Most policies have a 30-day waiting period, but there are exceptions. For example, there’s no waiting period if you buy flood insurance while opening, increasing, extending, or renewing your home loan.
Such exceptions activate insurance coverage immediately or within a day. There may be other exceptions, depending on your policy.
At BES & Associates Insurance, we want our policyholders to have active flood coverage before a flood occurs, not during or after. That’s why we encourage our clients to secure flood insurance coverage when the weather is favorable. Contact us for more information on flood insurance. We’re currently serving Walford, MD.
