PITTSBURGH -- The fallout from Wednesday's severe storms left yards destroyed, homes flooded and plenty of western Pennsylvania residents wondering about flood insurance.
But the flood damage produced by the storms is nearly unheard of in the Pittsburgh region, leaving many who thought they'd never need flood insurance wishing they had it.
"No one has anticipated this much rain in such a short time. Now we are suffering the damage of it or not being prepared, I guess," said Henry Nazarian of Najat Cuisine in North Braddock.
The biggest misconception consumers have, according to insurance companies, is that regular homeowner's insurance covers flood damage or the overflow of a body of water.
"Any time surface water enters your home it's not going to be covered under a homeowner's policy. You need a flood insurance policy," said Ray Ort of the Pennsylvania Department of Insurance.
Ort said customers would also have to purchase comprehensive coverage in order to get flood coverage for their vehicles.
Flood insurance can be very specific in what it covers, but it usually includes clothes washers and dryers, food freezers and the food in them. It also covers water tanks, oil tanks, furnaces, stairways, unpainted drywall and sheet rock walls and ceilings including fiberglass insulation.
Flood insurance does not cover basement improvements such as finished walls, floors and ceilings or personal belongings kept in a basement (furniture).
If a state of emergency is declared after a flood and federal disaster relief is sought, even homeowners in that county who do not have flood insurance may be eligible for relief from the federal government.
Related Links: Myths And Facts About The National Flood Insurance Program Insurance Facts For Pennsylvania Consumers
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