The flood of August 2016 nearly destroyed Nicky Stansbury's Abbeville home.
"We could not live here for over a year. We had foundation failure, walls cracking, we still have a moisture issue," says Stansbury.
One issue many continue to deal with after that historic flood, is their finances. Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon with the Louisiana Department of Insurance says this is avoidable if you take early steps to put yourself in a good place.
"Access the national flood insurance program. Still significantly subsidized by the federal government and benefiting Louisiana more than any other state in America. I call it the best property insurance buy any property owner can make in the state of Louisiana, anywhere in the state," says Donelon.
This coverage goes into effect 30 days after your application is received so it's best to send it in early. While you wait for 30 days there are a few more things you can do to protect your property.
"Take a picture of all of your assets. Your furnishings, your carpeting, your artwork. Whatever you have that could be damaged by a flood event or a wind event," says Donelon.
You can also start building relationships with contractors or handy men you'd like to put you at the top of their lists when you have damage.
"Have who you would call. Build relationships with those people before you actually ever need them and ask them what are your procedures when you have too much work? What are you going to do? Are you prepared?"
Donelon says homeowners should also work on a relationship with their insurance agent.
"If you have someone you have a relationship with, who you trust and respect the advice of, you're going to benefit greatly from that relationship," he says.
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