Since my real estate office is on Pensacola Beach flood insurance is always a "Hot" topic with my real estate clients. Who should buy flood insurance? What does it cost? What is a specila flood hazard area? These are crucial questions when looking at purchasing on or near the water.

Flood insurance is a MUST PURCHASE if you live in a special flood hazard area. According to the Santa Rosa Island Authority Pensacola Beach had 3,349 flood policies in force as of June 2008.

Flood insurance is provided through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) which is federally backed and available to everyone, even those who don't live in a special flood hazard area. Flood insurance is always a separate policy from your homeowners insurance policy, so don't get into the mindset that you have homeowner's insurance so you are covered for flood . . . this just isn't the case.

In my real estate market area, Escambia and Santa Rosa counties, we saw hurricanes in both 2004 and 2005 which resulted in flood insurance claims. Unfortunately, many homeowners - and those with second homes on the beach - were not covered for flood damage. Don't let yourself be caught by surprise like this! When arranging for a home sale I - and my team - always make sure our real estate clients are aware of the necessity for appropriate coverage.

Should you have any questions about flood zone determination on Pensacola Beach, or in other areas of Escambia or Santa Rosa counties, feel free to call me at 850-516-8185.

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