Property & Casualty — Personal
Flood Insurance
Standard homeowners insurance doesn't cover floods. We make sure you're not caught off guard.
Flooding is the most common and costly natural disaster in the United States — and standard homeowners, renters, and commercial property policies exclude it entirely. Whether you live in a designated flood zone or a low-risk area, a separate flood insurance policy is the only way to protect your property and belongings from rising water. We work with NFIP-participating carriers and private flood insurers to find the right coverage for your location and risk profile.
What's Covered
- Building coverage — foundation, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and structural elements
- Personal property — furniture, electronics, clothing, and appliances damaged by flooding
- Detached garage coverage (limited, under building coverage)
- Debris removal following a covered flood loss
- Replacement cost coverage for primary residences (with full building coverage elected)
- Private flood policies with higher limits than NFIP for high-value properties
- Business interruption riders available through private carriers
Why It Matters
About 25% of all flood insurance claims come from properties outside high-risk flood zones. FEMA data shows the average flood claim exceeds $30,000 — money that comes entirely out of pocket without a flood policy. If you have a mortgage on a property in a designated Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA), your lender is already requiring it. If you don't, you're one major storm event away from a significant uninsured loss.
Common Questions
Is flood insurance required?
It's required by federally backed lenders for properties in high-risk flood zones (Zone A or V). For properties in moderate- or low-risk zones, it's optional — but strongly recommended. Heavy rain, hurricanes, rapid snowmelt, and storm surge regularly cause flooding well outside designated flood zones.
What is the waiting period for flood insurance?
NFIP policies typically have a 30-day waiting period before coverage takes effect. Private flood carriers often offer shorter waiting periods — sometimes as little as 10 days. Don't wait until a storm is forecasted to buy.
What does flood insurance NOT cover?
Flood policies generally exclude moisture or mold damage not directly caused by flooding, temporary housing costs (loss of use), landscaping, vehicles, and currency or precious metals. A comprehensive review of your total risk helps identify any remaining gaps.
Ready to get covered?
Talk to one of our advisors about the right policy for your situation. No pressure, no jargon — just honest guidance.