Acting Insurance Commissioner Joel Ario today reminded Pennsylvanians that the arrival of spring is a good time to consider buying flood insurance to protect their homes and businesses.

With more than 50,000 miles of rivers, streams and creeks, Pennsylvania is among the most flood-prone states in the nation.

"Flooding can happen at any time of year and in almost any area," Ario said. "Because standard homeowners insurance policies do not include coverage for flood damage, consumers should consider whether it makes sense for them to purchase flood coverage. And, because coverage takes effect 30 days after a flood policy is purchased, it's not a decision that can be put off until water begins to rise."

Flood insurance is available to homeowners, renters and businesses. A standard flood insurance policy, which pays for direct physical damage to your insured property, has an average premium of approximately $500 a year.

Premiums for flood insurance will vary, depending on risk level for a flood loss, the amount of coverage, the type of coverage needed and the deductible level. The contents of a home are not covered under a standard policy, but for an additional premium, you also may purchase additional coverage for your personal property.

"Coverage for basements, crawlspaces and ground-level enclosures on elevated homes is limited," Ario added. "So if your home has these spaces, be sure to ask your insurance agent about any restrictions in your policy."

Many of Pennsylvania's communities are built on floodplains, according to the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency. Nationwide, flooding caused an estimated $45 billion in property damage between 1991 and 2000, according to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Flood insurance can be purchased from any Pennsylvania insurance producer licensed to sell property/casualty insurance, and is backed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency's national flood insurance program. For more information about flood insurance, consumers can log onto .

The Insurance Department also publishes a free brochure -- "Are You Ready if a Disaster Strikes?" -- that provides strategies for consumers whose homes and businesses might suffer weather-related property damage.

Here are a few helpful tips for those affected by severe weather:

-- Contact your insurance company as soon as possible. Keep a log of all your conversations and the names of those with whom you speak.
-- Before doing any repairs to your house, photograph and make a list of the damage.
-- Protect your home from further damage by making temporary repairs until your insurance company is able to advise you. Save receipts for repair materials purchased, and don't discard damaged property until the claims adjuster advises you to do so.
-- Do not make permanent repairs until after your insurance company has inspected the property. Doing so could cause your claim to be denied.
-- If your claim is denied, review the terms of your policy. You may also file an appeal to your insurance company's claim manager. If questions remain, contact the Insurance Department.

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Related:  Fema - Flood