How Flood Insurance Works
- David Reyes
- Mar 26
- 2 min read
What Every Homeowner Should Know Before the Waters Rise
Flooding is the most common — and costly — natural disaster in the United States. Yet, many homeowners are shocked to discover that their standard homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage. Whether you live near the coast or in an area that rarely floods, it’s essential to understand how flood insurance works and whether you need it.
What Is Flood Insurance?
Flood insurance is a separate policy that covers damage caused by rising water. This includes:
Storm surge
Flash flooding
Overflowing rivers and creeks
Heavy rainfall that causes surface water to enter your home
💡 Damage from burst pipes or leaky roofs is not considered flood damage — those are usually covered by your standard homeowner's policy.
Who Provides Flood Insurance?
In most cases, flood insurance is purchased through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), which is managed by FEMA. Some private insurers also offer coverage, often with higher limits or fewer restrictions.
You can get flood insurance:
Through your current insurance provider (if they’re enrolled with NFIP)
Through specialized flood insurance brokers
Through private insurers for high-value properties or commercial spaces
What Does Flood Insurance Cover?
Building Coverage (Structure)
Foundation walls
Electrical and plumbing systems
HVAC equipment, water heaters, and furnaces
Appliances (refrigerators, stoves, dishwashers)
Permanently installed carpet or paneling
Detached garages (limited)
Contents Coverage (Your Belongings)
Furniture
Electronics
Clothing
Washers and dryers
Curtains
Portable air conditioners
What’s Not Covered?
Even with a flood policy, there are limits to what’s protected. Most policies do not cover:
Additional living expenses (like hotels or temporary rentals)
Damage from mold or mildew that could have been prevented
Cash, precious metals, or valuable documents
Landscaping, decks, patios, fences, or swimming pools
How Much Does Flood Insurance Cost?
Premiums vary based on:
Your home’s location and flood zone
The elevation of your home compared to base flood levels
Age and structure of your home
Whether your area participates in a community flood program
Average policies range from $400 to $1,500+ annually, but homes in high-risk flood zones may cost more.
📍 You can check your flood risk at https://msc.fema.gov
When Should You Get Flood Insurance?
Most flood policies through the NFIP have a 30-day waiting period. That means you can’t buy coverage the day before a storm and expect to be protected.
If you're buying a home in a flood-prone area, your lender may require flood insurance.
Even if you’re in a low-risk zone, it’s worth considering:
1 in 4 flood claims come from homes outside high-risk flood areas.
Final Thoughts
Flood insurance isn’t just for beachfront homes — it’s for anyone who wants peace of mind when unpredictable weather hits. With climate change driving more intense storms and rainfall, even homes far from rivers or coasts are at risk.
Was Your Home Impacted by Flooding?
You don’t have to face it alone. If your home suffered water damage from a recent flood, we’re here to help you take the next step — quickly and confidently.
✅ Free Property Damage Assessment
✅ Support Understanding Your Insurance Options
✅ Connection to Trusted Contractors and Partner Attorneys
Let us help you document the damage and find out what you're eligible for.