Flood insurance lapses for some

Flooding from hurricanes, flash floods and tropical weather systems is a high possibility for Iberia Parish residents. Many residents have aquired flood insurance since Hurricane Rita struck almost two years ago.

"We have been consistently selling more flood insurance, primarily because we recommend it to everyone regardless of where they live," said James Perez of DJW Insurance Agency. "We have sold 20 percent more flood insurance policies this year than last year."

According to the National Flood Insurance Program, flood losses in Iberia Parish have totaled almost $46 million. In the past year, policies in Iberia Parish have increased by about 13 percent.

However, despite the increase, there is still a large number of homes uninsured.

Currently, 80 percent of the parish is still at risk. As of June, out of 25,000 households, only 4,925 policies were in effect.

"A year ago, there were a lot of people getting flood insurance," said J. Don Louviere of Allstate Insurance. "Recently, we don't have hardly the amount of people interested."

The number of people renewing their policies has also gone down considerably in the last year.

"Ten to 15 percent are not renewing this year," Louviere said. "We've seen a diminish in it right now."

The NFIP states that in Iberia Parish, approximately 1,180 insurance policies are expected to lapse between this month and November.

"Everybody is elgible for flood insurance," Louviere said. "Those located in a flood zone do need to be at a certain elevation."

Perez also recommended residents look into protecting their homes.

"My advice to homeowners is to look closely at the facts when considering flood insurance," he said. "Your home has a 26 percent chance of being damaged by a flood during the course of a 30-year mortgage, compared to a 9 percent chance of fire."

The price of flood insurance can vary, depending on which flood zone a home is located.

"An 'A' rated zone will be higher than a 'C' rated zone," said Louviere.

"Last year, one-third of all claims paid by the NFIP were for policies in low-risk communities," said Perez.

"If you live in a low- to moderate-risk area and are eligible for the Preferred Risk Policy, your flood insurance premium may be as low as $112 a year, including coverage for your property's contents."

The zones are determined by the NFIP. To find out what zone you live in, visit www.floodsmart.gov. The Web site asks users to enter in their address and then determines the risk for flooding.

More information can be found out about a specific zone by clicking on the designated link.