Skip Navigation

News

  • Sep
    28
    2017

    County efforts bring reduced flood insurance premiums for property owners

    Posted by: Public Works

    ​The Board of Commissioners has approved recertification of Marion County's continued participation in the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Community Rating System for the upcoming year. The Class 6 rating will continue lower flood insurance premiums for property owners in unincorporated areas of Marion County and is part of the National Flood Insurance Program.

    Through the program, residents receive 20 percent premium discounts within flood hazard areas and 10 percent discounts in non-flood hazard areas. Commissioner Sam Brentano, board chair, said, "I've seen the effects of flooding on homes and families. I'm pleased we're doing all we can to minimize the impacts of flooding, as well as provide a cost savings for county residents."   

    There are many reasons homeowners should consider flood insurance. Many people are not aware that standard homeowners' policies don't cover flood damage. Federal grants and loan programs are not available after every flood event and just a few inches of floodwater in a home can cause thousands of dollars in damage.

    Last year, county residents saved more than $50,000 in premiums on $70 million in insured structures and contents. Discounts are automatic and policy holders need not do anything other than purchase insurance to receive reduced premiums. The average savings per policy is $160.

    Marion County achieved a Class 6 rating by accomplishing a number of tasks from a menu of FEMA-endorsed practices to prevent or mitigate flooding. These include construction standards like not allowing basements for new construction in flood zones, improving outreach efforts to help residents understand how to better prepare for floods, and keeping streams free of debris and pollution. Outreach efforts and management practices place Marion County among the top jurisdictions nationwide for flood insurance savings.

    For more information contact Brandon Reich at (503) 566-4175 or breich@co.marion.or.us. ​

    County efforts bring reduced flood insurance premiums for property owners
​​​​​ View All News