CLARKSVILLE, TN (CLARKSVILLE NOW) – With yet another series of storms bringing flooding to neighborhoods across town, the City of Clarksville is providing residents with answers to some frequently asked questions regarding flood insurance and the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).

One of the first questions answered in a news release sent to Clarksville Now is, “Am I eligible to buy flood insurance?” The city makes it clear that all Clarksville property owners are eligible to purchase flood insurance through the NFIP, which is a federally subsidized program that provides flood insurance to property owners in participating NFIP communities, and Clarksville is included in the program.

Another question answered is, “My insurance company that I have homeowners’ insurance with says they cannot sell me flood insurance. So, I can’t get it right?” The city says you can still be eligible to purchase NFIP flood insurance and there are 22 NFIP insurance providers in the State of Tennessee. Visit this link for a list of providers.

Several Clarksville residents over the years have purchased property without realizing their need for flood insurance. There are some areas where flood zones are extending, like discussed in the case of the 100-year floodplain in northwest Clarksville.

Flood damage is listed as an exclusion on most homeowners’ policies, and there are many homeowners in need of separate insurance policies, according to previous reports.

Here are the remaining questions the City of Clarksville answered involving flood insurance at the NFIP.

Flood insurance Q&A

Question: How do I begin the process of buying NFIP flood insurance?

Answer: Visit floodsmart.gov to start the process of getting a quote to purchase flood insurance.

Q: I don’t live inside of a flood plain, so I shouldn’t need NFIP insurance right?

A: While NFIP flood insurance may be required by lenders for properties within identified flood plains, all property owners in Clarksville are eligible to purchase flood insurance if they choose to. A reduced risk is still a risk. For additional information in a concise presentation from the State NFIP, please see click here.

Q: Where can I find additional information about NFIP?

A: You can visit floodsmart.gov for additional information and to obtain a quote. You can also use this PDF for a brief overview of the program. The local Floodplain Administrator can be reached at FPAdmin@cityofclarksville.com or the State of Tennessee Middle Region NFIP Specialist, Graham Christophel, can be reached at 629-250-8194.

Q: How do I know if my property is near a designated flood area?

A: If you are working with a Realtor, they can assist you in identifying your home within the current mapping. You can also contact Clarksville Building and Codes Department (bccommercial@cityofclarksville.com) and they can assist you in researching your subdivision’s plat. You can also type your address into FEMA Flood Map Service Center | Search By Address.

Q: Are there other steps property owners can take to mitigate flooding hazards?

A: Yes, property owners can keep private property clear of downed limbs. The City offers the Spring Clean-Up program to assist property owners in picking up these limbs. For more information, visit the City’s website.