Flood Damage Hits Uninsured Homeowners

Damage from severe weather that has flooded north Georgia and killed at least eight people has been estimated at $250 million.

Insurance Commissioner John W. Oxendine announced the estimate Tuesday evening and said most of that amount is uninsured.

Oxendine said he spent time surveying the damage and many of the affected homeowners don't have flood insurance.

While a standard homeowner's insurance policy covers damage from a variety of disasters, it does not cover damage from flooding.

A separate policy must be purchased through the National Flood Insurance Program, and can only be purchased if the community participates in the national program.

Oxendine said Georgians can call his Consumer Services Division at 404-656-2070 or 1-800-656-2298 for help with insurance matters.