“Super El Niño” has your attention. Your home may be insured but is it flood protected? Take these 6 steps to be flood prepared.

In a recent CBS Sacramento report, Sacramento County District 5 Supervisor Pat Hume, calls for flood preparedness among Super El Nino concerns.The biggest questions to ask yourself, when it comes to floods: Do you have flood insurance? Do you know what your flood policy covers? You can fix the kitchen. You can fix the roof. But keep in mind an insurance gap after a flood, might be a much harder problem to fix.Southern California and The Bay Area have Earthquakes. The Upper Northern California coast has Tsunami warnings. And here in wonderful Sacramento? We have Floods.Being a Native in Sacramento, I have had my fair share of floods.

Growing up in Sacramento, I can remember extreme flooding in 1986, 1995, 1997, 2006, 2017, and 2023. Each time, different communities were affected. Knowing the history is the reason why it is so important to know the area that you invest in or that you currently reside in. Do not assume that every area has the same risks. And sadly, most Sacramento homeowners and renters in flood zones, do not have flood insurance. Simply, because they do not know that it is a separate coverage from their regular insurance.Be prepared and Do these steps before the next storm:

Look at where your home is located on the FEMA Flood map service center and Sacramento County’s flood zone resources. Just plug in your address. A map is a great minimal starting point in understanding the potential seriousness.
Call your insurance agent and ask for a flood insurance quote. Review the building and belongings coverage, deductibles, limits and exclusions.
Ask when protection would kickstart. Policies generally have a 30 day waiting period. Make sure to have your effective date in writing.
Have all of your very important documents in a waterproof folder or portable container, so you can grab it fast in case of an emergency. Also make digital copies in a secure place. Take and print pictures of all the rooms and major belongings.
Prepare your home for the rainy season. Clean gutters and brush.
Make an emergency plan. Know where will you go, how will you get there, and a list of what the kids, pets and elderly members will need. Keep medications and essentials supplies ready. Also have a plan where will everyone meet in case there is a separation.

My final local intelligence:As a real estate agent, I believe my duty to my Sacramento community extends beyond buying and selling homes. It includes informing homeowners and investors the importance of insurance coverage and looking over their options in protecting their greatest assets. I believe that good guidance should help others understand their responsibilities even after their closing date.Buyers: Obtain property specific quotes, so the costs fit into your home purchase decision.Sellers: Organize drainage and repair reports, so buyers can evaluate the property with clear and concise information.Whatever the weather brings, being prepared belongs on your yearly calendar. Before the next storm becomes headlines, I ask you to make that one call to your insurance agent and ask…“Can you tell me what will happen if my home floods and what exactly is protected?"Leia BarazaLET'S TALK STRATEGY : Set up an appointment here https://calendly.com/leiainthecity/real-estate-consultationHelping you move in faith with local intelligence you can trust.eXp Realty · DRE #01500025 · 916.879.4435

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