Studies have been done that show a link between the rise in precipitation levels and increased costs of flooding in the US. 

Unfortunately that is just one of several factors that affect flood levels.

The increase in population in the US owing to more open immigration laws under the Biden administration will also have an impact, as congestion and urbanization increase even more. With a growing population, cities and major urban areas will see more growth in population density.

We know that when urban areas are very densely packed with people, there is a greater risk of flooding when a natural disaster strikes. Some of the worst flood disasters take place in Third World countries where population density is greater. Last year, in Isabela, Philippines, there was extensive damage done by flooding affecting over 140,000 people in that area. 

And as has been made very apparent by the scientific community, we can expect climate change to enter more extreme periods of volatility in the future. As the world population increases and we release more carbon into the atmosphere, the scale and magnitude of natural disasters is thought to rise. 

That means bigger hurricanes, more wet seasons and more droughts, and more snow storms (remember that infamous Texas snow storm in early 2021?). 

Homeowners everywhere should have a rolodex of professional services that they can call in a time of need. Florida homeowners are especially vulnerable given our state’s low altitude and abundant coastal regions. 

Unfortunately, it’s not a matter of if, but when. It may not be for several years, but the chances of a high-impact storm like a hurricane or tropical front hitting Florida are always there. 

Most homeowners are insured against flood damage from natural disasters. If you’re not sure, we encourage you to check with your insurer to make sure you have flood coverage. Especially in a state like Florida, a strong tropical storm is very capable of wreaking havoc to communities and causing serious infrastructural damage to floors, walls, foundations, streets, and even roofs. 

Infrastructure damage should be protected against at all costs. If your infrastructure takes serious damage, you are risking the value of your home or property. 

The great news for Florida homeowners is that on average, property values have gone up since the start of the pandemic, as more and more people move to the state to escape harsh restrictions on freedom and personal liberties. 

It’s why we love living in Florida and working with Florida homeowners. The stronger we grow as a state, the better for all of us. 

We encourage every homeowner to make sure their home insurance policy has ample coverage for flooding, natural disaster damage, and roof leaks. Most insurers will cover damage done by natural disasters – but what about just intense rainfall that is not classified as a natural disaster?

If a storm is classified as a hurricane, you will probably be covered by your insurer. But if your roof is leaking due to intense rainfall that is not categorized, some insurers leave that bill to you. 

Unfortunately we know that intense rainfall will continue as long as climate change is a reality. 

If you’re unsure how to handle a roof leak, we recommend to call us immediately. Depending on the type of coverage you have and the type of damage to your roof, we may be able to work with your insurer to get you covered. In some cases, our clients receive a large sum that they can use towards home renovation. In some cases this can be worth tens of thousands of dollars! Definitely worth the try at least. 

Stay safe and stay dry Florida!