LELAND — It takes 30 days for flood insurance to go into effect from the day it’s purchased. This waiting period, coupled with ongoing hurricane season, prompted the Town of Leland to invite residents to stop by Town Hall for a flood risk open house Tuesday.
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The open house will be drop-in style with no formal presentation. It will be an opportunity for people to get one-on-one time with Leland staff members to learn more about flood risks and flood insurance.
“Flooding can happen anywhere,” Ben Andrea, Leland’s Planning Director, said. “You don’t have to be in a flood zone.”
Planning and Inspections staff will attend the open house to answer questions. Computers will also be available for people to find out whether their property is located within a federally-designated flood zone. “It will be an opportunity to sit with folks one-on-one and help them understand what their risk of flooding is,” Andrea said.
Flood insurance is offered at a discounted rate for properties located outside the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) flood zones. FEMA recommends all homeowners purchase flood insurance regardless of their proximity to federal flood zones.
Though specific insurance questions can be addressed through individual insurance agents, Andrea said Leland staff members will be available to talk residents through what their options are. “It’s wise for them if they’re interested in purchasing it to purchase it sooner rather than later,” Andrea said.
Leland’s open house will take place Tuesday, August 13, at Leland Town Hall. The drop-in style event will take place between 5 and 7 p.m.
Send tips and comments to Johanna Ferebee at johanna@localvoicemedia.com
