Lately, the Lehigh Valley has seen one rainstorm after another—from backed-up storm drains in Bethlehem to flash flooding along the Lehigh River in Easton. And if you think your standard homeowners policy has you covered, it’s time for a reality check.
Here’s the truth: most homeowners insurance policies do not cover flood damage. That means if heavy rain causes your basement to flood or water seeps in during a storm, you could be left footing the bill.
But don’t worry—there’s a simple fix.
Here’s how to protect your home with flood insurance, and why now is the time to act.
1. Understand What Your Homeowners Policy Leaves Out
Many homeowners are surprised to learn that rising water from outside the home—like flash floods, river overflow, or heavy rain runoff—is excluded from their standard policy. That’s because flood damage falls under a separate category, requiring its own insurance policy.
At YMI Insurance, we help Lehigh Valley homeowners:
- Identify coverage gaps in existing homeowners policies
- Explain the difference between flood and water damage
- Find the right flood policy for their risk and budget
Whether you’re in a flood zone in Allentown or just outside one in Macungie, knowing where your coverage ends is essential.
2. Add Flood Insurance Before It’s Too Late
Flood insurance isn’t just for coastal areas—it’s for anyone at risk of water damage from weather events. And with rainfall increasing across the Lehigh Valley, now’s the time to secure protection.
Most policies—especially those from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)—have a 30-day waiting period. That means you can’t wait until the next storm is on the radar.
YMI works with both NFIP and private carriers to ensure you’re not left exposed.
3. Consider Private Flood Insurance for Better Coverage
If you want more than the basic protection NFIP offers, private flood insurance can be a smart move. These policies often:
- Cover higher limits than NFIP’s $250,000 cap
- Include finished basements and valuable contents
- Offer shorter waiting periods and additional living expenses
Our team compares multiple carriers to make sure you’re getting the most complete coverage—without overpaying.
4. Get a Localized Risk Assessment
Every home in the Lehigh Valley is different. While someone in Emmaus might be worried about water pooling in low-lying areas, homeowners near Jordan Creek in Whitehall could face risks from nearby waterways.
YMI offers free local risk assessments so you can:
- Understand how nearby terrain and drainage systems affect you
- Adjust your coverage based on true flood risk—not just FEMA maps
- Prepare for the worst with tailored protection
5. Don’t Let Your Basement Be a Blind Spot
Finished basements are a staple in homes from Nazareth to Coopersburg—but they’re often excluded or limited in standard flood policies.
We’ll help you:
- Identify what’s covered (and what’s not)
- Add endorsements for basement contents
- Understand limitations in sump pump failure and water backup
It’s one of the most common oversights we catch during policy reviews.
6. Protect What Matters—Without Breaking the Bank
Flood insurance doesn’t have to be expensive. Premiums vary based on risk, but bundling with your homeowners policy or choosing a higher deductible can lower costs.
At YMI, we help you:
- Compare NFIP vs. private flood options
- Find discounts and deductible strategies that work
- Bundle with your home or auto policies for savings
Your Peace of Mind Starts With a Simple Conversation
Don’t wait until water is rising to check your coverage. With the right flood policy in place, you can weather any storm with confidence.
Let YMI Insurance help you stay dry—financially and literally.
📞 Ready to review your coverage or request a quote?
Learn more about our flood insurance solutions »
