Flood Insurance

Flood insurance protects your home and belongings from damage caused by rising water from natural sources—something not covered by standard homeowners insurance. Flooding can happen anywhere, whether from storms, overflowing waterways, or heavy rain, and even low-risk areas experience unexpected floods every year. The right flood policy ensures you’re financially protected when rising water impacts your property.

What Flood Insurance Covers

Flood insurance helps protect you from water damage caused by:

• Storm surge

• Heavy rain that causes flash flooding

• Overflow of rivers, bayous, or lakes

• Hurricane-related flooding

• Coastal flooding

• Mudflow

🚫 Important: Homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage. A separate flood policy is required.

Two Types of Flood Coverage

🏠 Building Coverage

Protects the structure of your home, including:

• Foundation, walls, and floors

• Electrical and plumbing systems

• HVAC units

• Water heater and built-in appliances

• Attached cabinets and paneling

• Detached garage (limited coverage)

📦 Contents Coverage

Protects your personal belongings, such as:

• Furniture

• Clothing

• Electronics

• Rugs

• Personal items

Note: Contents coverage must be purchased separately.

Where Flood Insurance Comes From

1. National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)

• Government-backed policies with set rates

• Coverage limits:

  • $250,000 for the home structure

  • $100,000 for personal contents

• 30-day waiting period (except for certain mortgage situations)

2. Private Flood Insurance

• Often higher coverage limits

• May include additional benefits like:

  • Loss of use / temporary living expenses

  • Certain basement items

• Sometimes more affordable depending on property risk

Who Needs Flood Insurance?

You should consider flood coverage if you are:

• In a high-risk FEMA flood zone (required for federally backed mortgages)

• In a moderate- or low-risk area and want added protection

• A homeowner who wants peace of mind — since 25% of flood claims come from low-risk areas

What Flood Insurance Typically Doesn’t Cover

• Additional living expenses (NFIP policies)

• Basement improvements (carpet, flooring, finished walls)

• Swimming pools, decks, fences

• Landscaping

• Cash, precious metals, and valuables

Private flood plans may offer optional upgrades.