Potential flooding in Oregon raises insurance concerns

A characteristically rainy winter in the Pacific Northwest may put some parts of Oregon at risk of flooding. Oregonians in flood zones are encouraged to consider preparing for flood damage.

The Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services suggests building a financial first aid kit. You can do this by saving account numbers and backing up your computer files. It’s also important to take an inventory of your belongings and secure important documents in a fire-tight safe or bank deposit box.

If you don’t have flood insurance, there isn’t much you can do after the fact. Most Oregonians with flood coverage have it through the National Flood Insurance Program, but you can also purchase private flood insurance through an insurance company.

Brandon Vogel, a private client advisor for HUB International Northwest, cautioned that you may have to look beyond your current insurance provider to find flood coverage.

“It’s not something your standard company offers you,” Vogel said. “It is something that is done through a special carrier, a special type of company. And it’s usually done through FEMA, so it’s regulated by the government.”

The Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services offers more flood insurance resources on its website.