Flood risks and insurance forum registration due April 1

Delaware Sea Grant and partners will hold a 2024 Flood Insurance Forum called Fact Vs. Fiction: Everything You Need to Know About Flood Risks and Insurance, from 9 to 11 a.m., Wednesday, April 3, at the Lewes Public Library.

Danielle Swallow, coastal hazards specialist with Delaware Sea Grant and one of the event organizers, said she has learned from speaking to residents throughout Delaware that it’s clear there are many myths surrounding flood insurance.

“Some people assume that their regular homeowner’s insurance covers flooding, and it doesn’t,” said Swallow. “As Delaware continues to experience more extreme weather events and a rate of sea level rise that is twice the global average, while at the same time experiencing population growth at the coast, there’s the potential that more homes are going to benefit from having flood insurance in the future. We are hosting this educational event to remind people about the importance of it and address some of the myths that are out there.”

One myth is that if a home is not located in a flood zone, the owners do not need to purchase flood insurance. Swallow pointed out that approximately 40% of flood insurance claims in the National Flood Insurance Program occur outside of high-risk flood zones. Just one inch of flooding can cause substantial damage to a home or business.

At the forum, participants will be able to find out how they can protect their residential and commercial property and assets – even if they are renters – by knowing their risks and investing in flood insurance. Participants will come away with a better understanding of flood insurance and how flood risks are evolving.

“As a coastal hazards specialist, this is one of the primary safety nets that the federal government has to safeguard people’s property in the event of a flood,” said Swallow. “Even though it may not cover everything in some cases, it can help people recover from a flood more quickly. We have a lot of new residents moving into Delaware, particularly near rivers and coasts, so they’re moving into areas of higher risk for flooding from heavy rains, tides, coastal storms and sea level rise.”

Participants will also learn how county and municipal land use and construction practices can play a part in reducing vulnerability and exposure.

In-person attendees will have the benefit of meeting insurance and floodplain professionals, visiting exhibit booths and enjoying light refreshments. Partnering organizations and exhibitors include the Delaware Emergency Management Agency, USI Insurance Services, Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control, and the Delaware Manufactured Home Owners Association. Representatives of these partners and Delaware Sea Grant will be on hand to answer any questions.

The event is offered virtually and in person. Registration is free but required by Monday, April 1.

To register, go to deseagrant.org/flood-forum.