Flooding is the most common and costly natural disaster in the United States, yet many homeowners are shocked to learn that standard homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage. Whether you live in a high-risk zone or a low-risk area, understanding how flood insurance works can save you from financial devastation. In this beginner-friendly guide, we’ll explain the basics of flood insurance, what it covers (and doesn’t), how to get it, and why it’s a smart move—even if you don’t live near water. What Is Flood Insurance? Flood insurance is a separate policy designed to cover losses directly caused by flooding. It’s most commonly offered through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), managed by FEMA, and can also be purchased through private insurers. Flooding refers to a temporary overflow of water onto land that is normally dry. This can result from: Heavy rain Storm surges Overflowing rivers or lakes Melting snow Failed levees or dams If any of these events cause damage to your property, flood insurance can help you recover. What Does Flood Insurance Cover? Flood insurance typically includes two categories of coverage: building property and personal contents. You can purchase either or both, depending on your needs. 1. Building Property Coverage Covers the structure of your home and includes: Foundation, walls, and staircases Electrical and plumbing systems HVAC systems (furnace, central air) Water heaters Built-in appliances (refrigerators, stoves) Permanently installed carpeting, paneling, and cabinetry Detached garages (up to 10% of the building coverage limit) Maximum NFIP coverage: Up to $250,000 2. Personal Contents Coverage Covers your belongings inside the home, such as: Furniture and clothing Electronics Portable appliances Curtains and window treatments Freezers and the food inside Valuables (limited coverage on items like art and furs) Maximum NFIP coverage: Up to $100,000 What Flood Insurance Does NOT Cover Flood insurance has important limitations. It won’t cover: Damage from moisture or mold not directly caused by flood Additional living expenses (e.g., hotel stays if your home is uninhabitable) Cars and other vehicles (check your auto insurance) Loss of income or business interruption Landscaping, patios, and fences Financial loss due to delays in claim payments Always review your policy for specific exclusions. How to Purchase Flood Insurance Here’s a simple step-by-step guide: Check Your Flood Risk Use FEMA’s Flood Map Service Center to find out your flood zone. Contact an Insurance Agent Only licensed agents can sell NFIP-backed flood insurance. Private flood insurance is also available in some areas and may offer broader coverage. Choose Your Coverage Type Decide between structure-only, contents-only, or both. Know the Waiting Period NFIP policies usually have a 30-day waiting period before coverage begins (except for some lender-required purchases). Do You Really Need Flood Insurance? The answer may surprise you. More than 20% of flood claims come from homes outside high-risk zones. Just one inch of water can cause over $25,000 in damage. Many mortgage lenders require flood insurance in high-risk areas. Even if you’re in a low-risk zone, a flood policy could mean the difference between recovery and financial ruin. Tips for Maximizing Your Flood Protection Take inventory of your belongings with photos or videos Keep records of repair receipts and maintenance logs Understand your deductible—it applies separately to building and contents Consider elevation improvements to reduce future risk and lower premiums Review your policy annually, especially after renovations or major purchases ✅ Final Thoughts Flood insurance is not just for those who live near water—it’s for anyone who wants peace of mind in the face of unpredictable weather and rising flood risks. With climate change intensifying storm activity and rainfall, having the right coverage can make all the difference. Don’t wait until the water’s at your doorstep. Get informed. Get covered. Stay protected. At ACW Insurance Agency LLC, we are dedicated to providing our clients with comprehensive and affordable insurance policies. Our commitment extends to going the extra mile to address your specific needs. To learn more about how we can assist you, please contact our agency at (772) 261-2573 or CLICK HERE to request a free quote. Disclaimer: The information presented in this blog is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. It is crucial to consult with a qualified insurance agent or professional for personalized advice tailored to your specific circumstances. They can provide expert guidance and help you make informed decisions regarding your insurance needs.

Pet insurance is growing in popularity as more pet owners r ealize the importance of protecting their furry family members—and their wallets. But before you buy a policy, it's essential to understand what pet insurance typically covers, what it doesn't, and how to choose the right plan for your needs. This guide breaks down the basics of pet insurance, so you can make an informed decision and ensure your pet gets the care they deserve. What Is Pet Insurance? Pet insurance is a health policy for your pet that reimburses you for certain veterinary costs. It works similarly to human health insurance in that you pay a monthly premium and, in return, receive partial or full reimbursement for eligible medical expenses. However, unlike human insurance, most pet insurance plans operate on a reimbursement model: Yo u pay the vet bill upfront Submit a claim to the insurer Get reimbursed b ased on your policy’s terms What Pet Insurance Typically Covers Coverage varies by provider and plan, but here are the most common expenses pet insurance will cover: Accidents and Emergencies Broken bones, cuts, poisoning, foreign object ingestion, etc. Illnesses Cancer, diabetes, infections, arthritis, allergies, and more Diagnostic Testing X-rays, MRIs, ultrasounds, blood tests Surgery Emergency surgeries, tumor removals, orthopedic procedures Hospitalization Overnight stays, IV fluids, intensive care Prescription Medications Pain relievers, antibiotics, insulin, etc. Chronic Conditions Conditions like epilepsy, thyroid disease, or heart disease (if covered under your plan) Specialist Care Dermatology, oncology, cardiology, and o ther specialist services Some policies also offer wellness add-ons that can cover routine care (more on that below). What Pet Insurance Typically Does NOT Cover It's just as important to understand what isn’t covered under most basic pet insurance plans: P re-existing Conditions Any illness or injury that showed symptoms before the policy started or during the waiting period Routine and Preventive Care Vaccinations, dental cleanings, spay/neuter, flea/tick prevention (unless you purchase a wellness add-on) Cosmetic or Elective Procedures Ear cropping, tail docking, and declawing Breeding and Pregnancy Costs associated with breeding, pregnancy, or birth are generally excluded Behavioral Therapy Not all insurers cover training or behavior-related treatments unless stated Experimental Treatments Unproven therapies or clinical trials may not be reimbursable Optional Add-Ons (Wellness or Preventive Coverage) Some insurers allow you to add wellness plans for an additional fee. These typically cover: Annual check-ups Vaccinations Dental cleanings Parasite testing Microchipping Spay/neuter procedures These are great for managing routine care costs but may not be necessary for all pet owners. What to Look for in a Pet Insurance Policy Before choosing a provider, consider the following: Coverage Limits Annual, per-incident, or lifetime caps Deductibles How much you must pay out-of-pocket before reimbursement kicks in Reimbursement Rates Common rates are 70%, 80%, or 90% of covered expenses Waiting Periods Most plans have a waiting period before coverage begins (usually 14 days for illness) Multi-Pet Discounts If you have more than one pet, look for bundled pricing Customer Reviews & Claim Process Read reviews to see how easy it is to file claims and get reimbursed Is Pet Insurance Worth It? The answer depends on your financial situation, your pet’s health, and how much risk you’re willing to take. Veterinary care can be unpredictable and expensive. Pet insurance offers: Financial protection in emergencies Peace of mind knowing you won’t have to choose between your pet’s health and your bank account Coverage for unexpected illnesses or accidents It’s particularly valuable for breeds prone to certain genetic conditions or for owners who want to avoid surprise vet bills. Final Thoughts Pet insurance isn’t one-size-fits-all, but understanding what’s covered and what’s not can help you pick the best policy for your pet’s needs. Take the time to read the fine print, and consider your pet’s breed, age, and medical history before signing up. A little planning today can mean a lot more tail wags tomorrow. At ACW Insurance Agency LLC, we are dedicated to providing our clients with comprehensive and affordable insurance policies. Our commitment extends to going the extra mile to address your specific needs. To learn more about how we can assist you, please contact our agency at (772) 261-2573 or CLICK HERE to request a free quote. Disclaimer: The information presented in this blog is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. It is crucial to consult with a qualified insurance agent or professional for personalized advice tailored to your specific circumstances. They can provide expert guidance and help you make informed decisions regarding your insurance needs.

Life insurance is one of the most important financial safety nets you can have—and yet, it’s also one of the most misunderstood. While many associate it with death, life insurance is ultimately about protecting life: your family's financial well-being, your children's future, and your peace of mind. In this guide, we’ll break down how life insurance works and why it may be more essential than you realize. What Is Life Insurance? Life insurance is a contract between you and an insurance provider. In exchange for regular payments (called premiums), the insurer agrees to pay a designated death benefit to your chosen beneficiary or beneficiaries after you pass away. The primary goal? To provide financial support to those you leave behind, helping them manage expenses and maintain their lifestyle during a difficult time. How Does Life Insurance Work? Here’s a basic breakdown of the process: 1.Choose a Policy Type The two main types of life insurance are: Term Life Insurance: Coverage lasts for a specific term (e.g., 10, 20, or 30 years). It’s usually the most affordable. Permanent Life Insurance (e.g., Whole or Universal): Offers lifetime coverage and builds cash value over time, which you can borrow against or withdraw. 2.Determine Your Coverage Amount This is how much money your beneficiaries would receive if you passed away. It’s typically based on: Income replacement Debts (mortgage, credit cards, loans) Future expenses (college tuition, funeral costs) 3.Pay Your Premiums Premiums can be paid monthly, quarterly, or annually. Rates depend on: Age Health history Policy type and amount of coverage 4.Your Beneficiaries Receive the Death Benefit If the insured person passes away while the policy is active, the insurer pays out the death benefit tax-free to the named beneficiaries. Why Life Insurance Is More Important Than You Think Too often, people underestimate the true value of life insurance—especially if they’re young, healthy, or not the primary breadwinner. But here’s why it matters: 1. Income Replacement If your family depends on your income to pay bills, life insurance ensures they can continue living without financial distress. 2. Debt Protection Life insurance can help cover debts like mortgages, personal loans, and student loans, so your loved ones aren’t burdened with them. 3. End-of-Life Expenses Funeral and burial costs can exceed $10,000. A life policy can relieve your family of these unexpected expenses. 4. Peace of Mind Knowing your loved ones are protected financially gives you—and them—peace of mind. 5. Legacy Planning With the right policy, you can leave behind a legacy or donate to a cause you care about. Tips for Choosing the Right Life Insurance Start Early: Premiums are lower when you're young and healthy. Review Annually: Life changes (marriage, kids, a new job) may require updating your policy. Work With a Licensed Agent: A professional can help assess your needs and navigate your options. Final Thoughts Life insurance isn’t just about planning for the worst—it's about protecting the people you love most. Whether you're just starting a family, building wealth, or entering retirement, having the right life insurance coverage ensures you're prepared for whatever life may bring. Don’t wait until it’s too late. A small investment today can make a world of difference for your family’s tomorrow. At ACW Insurance Agency LLC, we are dedicated to providing our clients with comprehensive and affordable insurance policies. Our commitment extends to going the extra mile to address your specific needs. To learn more about how we can assist you, please contact our agency at (772) 261-2573 or CLICK HERE to request a free quote. Disclaimer: The information presented in this blog is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. It is crucial to consult with a qualified insurance agent or professional for personalized advice tailored to your specific circumstances. They can provide expert guidance and help you make informed decisions regarding your insurance needs.