As you should know, your home isn’t protected against floods. Only 12 percent of U.S. homeowners have flood insurance, which means the other 88 percent are either betting that a flood won’t hit their homes or they mistakenly believe that the insurance for their home will cover it. In either case, people need to be better informed.

Flood insurance covers physical damage to your property and possessions as a result of flooding. You can purchase coverage to protect your home, your belongings, or both. Building property coverage protects the physical structure of your home and its foundation. It also covers plumbing and electrical systems, air and heating systems, cabinets and paneling, attached bookcases, and a detached garage. Personal contents coverage protects clothing, furniture, some appliances, freezers, and the foods within them, electronics, and other certain valuables like art. Homeowners that live in a community that participates in the NFIP are eligible to qualify.