Last week's flooding in Fort Lauderdale is a stark reminder of the importance of flood insurance. Floods can cause devastating damage to homes and businesses, and without proper insurance coverage, recovery can be difficult or impossible.

Flood insurance is not typically included in homeowners or renters insurance policies, and many people are not aware of the need for this additional coverage. However, flooding is one of the most common natural disasters in the United States, and it can happen anywhere, not just in high-risk areas.

Without flood insurance, property owners are responsible for covering the cost of repairs and rebuilding after a flood. This can be an overwhelming financial burden, especially for those who have already suffered losses due to the flood.

Flood insurance can help protect property owners from these devastating financial losses. It covers damage to buildings and personal property caused by flooding, including damage from storm surges and overflowing rivers and lakes.

In addition to providing financial protection, flood insurance can also help property owners take steps to mitigate the risk of flooding. Insurance companies may provide guidance on measures that can be taken to reduce the risk of flooding, such as elevating buildings or installing flood barriers.

It's important to note that there is typically a waiting period before flood insurance coverage takes effect, so it's important to purchase coverage well in advance of any potential flooding.