Flooding can leave devastating damage in its wake. But Kay Bowker's family in Lumberton, New Jersey, though it was something that would never happen to them.

"It never even crossed our minds to get flood insurance. It was not needed. WE were not at all in what we felt was a high-risk area." said Kay Bowker

But ground water seeped through their basement floor last year. IT caused tens of thousands of dollars in damages, which her home-owner's insurance DIDN'T cover.

"It doesn't take a hurricane to cause major flood damage to your home" Said Consumer Reports' Tobie Stanger. "Even if you live in a low-to-moderate risk area, you could be subject to flooding."

But typical home-owner's insurance policies like the one Kay had don't cover flooding. You need separate flood insurance.

"With most insurance, experts say if you have any doubt, don't buy it. With flood insurance, we say you probably should buy it." said Stanger

To help determine whether you need coverage, go to FloodSmart.gov for a preliminary assessment of your property's flood risk.

"If you live in a low-to-moderate risk area, the cost of national flood insurance can be relatively low. It can be under $200 a year." said Stanger

Flood insurance, which you can get from most insurance agents, will pay up to $250,000 to rebuild your home and up to $100,000 to replace the contents.

Kay says it's coverage that's well worth having.

"You never know what can happen. And it's better to be prepared and ready than not, because it'll take you by surprise." said Bowker

Flood insurance usually kicks in 30 days from the date of purchase, so don't wait until bad weather is looming to purchase it. And, be aware, unlike homeowners insurance, you can't buy a flood policy that will pay more than the policy limit if rebuilding costs run higher than anticipated.