Flood damage is a risk to homeowners across the United States. Though flooding is a common and severe risk, it is usually excluded from standard homeowners and renters insurance policies. However, you can purchase renters or homeowners flood coverage from the National Flood Insurance Program.
27 percent of homeowners with homeowners insurance also have flood insurance.*
Floods can happen almost anywhere.
Hurricanes, winter storms, snowmelt, and new land development are frequent and often overlooked causes of flooding, especially if the construction changes natural runoff paths. And the risk of damage is substantial — just one inch of floodwater can cause up to $25,000 in damage.
You are eligible to purchase flood insurance as long as your community participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). There are currently over 23,000 communities participating in NFIP.
If you live in a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) or high-risk area and have a federally-backed mortgage, your mortgage lender will likely require you to have flood insurance. Homes in a high-risk area are more than twice as likely to be damaged by flood than by fire.
Don’t wait for a flood season warning on the evening news to buy a policy—there is a 30-day waiting period before the coverage takes effect.
Private flood insurance is available if you need additional insurance protection.
Known as “excess coverage,” additional insurance goes over and above the basic policy coverage for people whose communities do not participate in the NFIP. Some insurers have special policies for high-value properties. These policies may cover homes in non-coastal areas and/or provide enhancements to traditional flood coverage.
*According to the 2020 Triple-I Consumer Poll
References:
www.floodsmart.gov
www.fema.gov/flood-insurance
