Flood is one of the most common and more costly of the natural disasters. Without flood insurance, flood damage is NOT COVERED. Flood insurance is required for mortgaged properties in flood zone areas, but it is worth noting that with the increase of more severe storms, much of today’s flooding is a product of excessive rainfall and has nothing to do with being close to the shore. As the cost of cleaning up from flood far outweighs the cost of flood insurance, it makes sense to discuss flood insurance before an impending storm, so it is firmly in place the mandatory 30 days in advance. Knowing what flood insurance does NOT cover will alleviate any misconceptions ahead of time. Once a flood ensues, more documentation will hasten the claims process and having BEFORE photograph’s can be helpful.  Working with properly licensed and insured contractors is key to minimize the chance of falling prey to a fraudulent one.