The Virginian-Pilot
                             THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT 
              Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: Sunday, February 26, 1995              TAG: 9502230160
SECTION: CAROLINA COAST           PAGE: 07   EDITION: FINAL 
TYPE: Letter 
                                             LENGTH: Short :   35 lines

FLOOD INSURANCE UPDATE

We would like to respond to your recent article, ``Few take advantage of erosion insurance.'' As licensed insurance agents, it was with great interest that we read your article. Unfortunately, we must take a moment to correct a few details of your article.

The Upton-Jones amendment is available to flood insurance customers insured with private insurance companies who write through the federal government. Our agency places flood insurance with Unisun Insurance Company. Your article implied that only people holding National Flood Insurance Policies would be able to take advantage of this amendment.

Our agency has been able to offer our customers flood insurance in the Coastal Barrier Resources Areas since last year. Again, you mention these policies were only available through Fletcher Willey's office.

During your research, you missed several major changes that would be going into effect as of March 1. Flood insurance will have higher limits of coverage available, and they will institute a 30-day waiting period for changes that are not a result of a purchase of a home.

We applaud your efforts to educate the public. We would gladly offer our assistance with any insurance questions you may consider for your column.

Malcolm K. Fearing III

Outer Banks Insurance Agency

Manteo by CNB