BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) - This spring isn't shaping up to be a big one in terms of flooding in North Dakota, but Insurance Commissioner Adam Hamm is still encouraging residents to know their flood risk.
Hamm says homeowners, business owners and renters should study flood plain maps to identify which zone they're in _ higher risk or lower risk.
Hamm says it's also important to keep in mind that one-fourth of all flood insurance claims are paid out to policy holders in lower-risk zones.
Structures within high-risk zones might be required to carry flood insurance. Hamm says policies are most affordable in low- to moderate-risk zones. There's a 30-day waiting period before a flood insurance policy kicks in.
Flood plain maps can be found at www.msc.fema.gov .