Protect Yourself with Flood Insurance
Most homeowners insurance excludes damages from flood. Flood insurance is available and a wise investment for anyone in Gretna. Geographically, our city lies at or below sea-level, which makes properties within the city prone to hurricanes, heavy rains, and flooding.
To protect investments, flood insurance is available to homeowners, renters, and commercial owners/renters. All policy types provide coverage for buildings and contents. Costs vary depending on how much insurance is purchased, what’s covered and the property’s flood risk.
For pricing information, please see the following page on FEMA.gov: Cost of Flood Insurance for Single-Family Homes under NFIP’s Pricing Approach
Flood Insurance Requirements and Benefits
Properties in Flood Zone AE (high risk area) are required to carry flood insurance if they have a federally backed mortgage. For properties in Flood Zones X (low to moderate risk area), flood insurance is highly recommended as floods do not respect their boundaries. Facts show those insured in Zones X, B and C file more than 20 percent of all flood insurance claims through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and receive one-third of federal disaster assistance for flooding.
The maximum policy amount available from the federal government for a single-family residence is $250,000 on the building and $100,000 for contents.
When Should Flood Insurance be Purchased?
You must have an active flood insurance policy at the time of the flooding event to be eligible for any disaster relief or FEMA grant programs. Typically, there is a 30-day waiting period before a flood insurance policy becomes effective. Contact your insurance agent to start a policy today.
Where Can I Purchase Flood Insurance?
Contact your insurance agent or visit https://www.floodsmart.gov/flood-insurance-provider.
What about Risk Rating 2.0 that’s been in the news?
Full implementation of the NFIP’s new rating methodology Risk Rating 2.0 started on April 1, 2022, representing the first major overhaul of Flood insurance rates since the National Flood Insurance Program was created more than 50 years ago. If you are interested in learning more about these rate changes, visit FEMA’s page on Risk Rating 2.0. Jefferson Parish and the Department of Floodplain & Hazard Mitigation is staying abreast of the changes and is an active member of the Coalition for Sustainable Flood Insurance. You can view the efforts of the Coalition for Sustainable Flood Insurance here.
Keep Flood Insurance Records Safe
Keep your flood policy and an itemized list of furnishings, clothing, and valuables in a safe place, such as a waterproof and fireproof safe. It is helpful to have photos and receipts of your items as well. Call your agent or broker immediately if you suffer flood damage.
Zone AE Elevation Certificates: Who Needs Them and Why
If your structure is in Zone AE the Elevation Certificate will have information needed to determine a risk-based insurance policy.
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Who needs an Elevation Certificate?
Structures in Zone AE should review an Elevation Certificate and Flood Insurance Declaration Pages to ensure Flood Insurance Premiums are rated most cost effectively.
Pre-FIRM vs. Full Risk Rates
- “Pre-FIRM” rates are being phased out and have the highest rate increases annually.
- If your lowest floor is at or above the Base Flood Elevation a lower premium may be available buy using a full risk rate.
When do you need a NEW Elevation Certificate?
Some situations may require a new EC and some may not-
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Where can I get an Elevation Certificate for my structure?
- Ask the City of Gretna
- If your structure was recently built, your certificate may be on file with the Building Department. Call 504-363-1563.
- Ask the sellers
- When buying a property, ask a seller to give you their EC or purchase one before settlement.
- Hire a licensed land surveyor, engineer, or architect
- For a fee these professionals can complete an EC for you
For more information on purchasing flood insurance, call your local insurance agent or visit the floodsmart.gov website.
