1st Direct Blog

Winter brings more than cold mornings and early sunsets. Across the country it also brings a heightened risk of flooding, driven by heavy rain, rapid snowmelt, saturated ground and seasonal storms. Understanding winter flood risks is essential to safeguarding property and ensuring a smoother claims experience should the unexpected occur. This guide breaks down why winter flooding happens, what it means for policyholders, and the steps you can take now to reduce risk.   Why Fl

When a federal government shutdown occurs, the National Flood Insurance Program, NFIP, must pause certain operations. That interruption can complicate home purchases, lender requirements, and renewal timelines in flood zones. The good news, private flood insurance markets remain open, and in many cases can meet lender requirements, sometimes at a lower cost than NFIP. Below is a clear, practical guide to help you navigate coverage during a shutdown, followed by ways 1st Direc

Flood damage can turn life upside down in an instant, leaving homes and businesses in chaos. Beyond the emotional toll, there’s the...

Flood Risk Awareness Made Simple: Let 1st Direct Do the Heavy Lifting Understanding flood zones is critical. However, interpreting FEMA...

Vacation homes can be a dream investment, but if you rent yours out on platforms like Airbnb or VRBO, that dream can quickly turn costly...

Flooding is the most common and costly natural disaster in the U.S. While insurance serves as a critical safety net, today’s homeowners...