Flood Insurance
What does flood insurance cover?
Flood insurance may help cover damage caused by rising water entering a home or building from external flooding events. Depending on the policy, coverage may help protect:
- the structure of the home
- electrical and plumbing systems
- appliances
- flooring
- certain personal belongings
Coverage limits and exclusions vary by policy.
What is flood insurance and how does it work?
A flood policy is a separate policy that protects your property from flood damage. Most policies are backed by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), which helps make coverage available in participating communities.
What is the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)?
The NFIP is a federal program that provides flood insurance to homeowners, renters, and businesses in participating communities. These communities follow FEMA guidelines to reduce flood risk.
What does flood insurance cover?
Building coverage includes:
- The structure of your home and foundation
- Electrical and plumbing systems
- HVAC systems and water heaters
- Built-in appliances
- Detached garages (limited coverage)
Contents coverage includes:
- Clothing, furniture, and electronics
- Curtains and window treatments
- Portable appliances
- Washers and dryers
- Personal items (up to policy limits)
What flood insurance does not cover?
Flood insurance does not cover land, landscaping, pools, decks, or fences. Coverage for basements and high-value items may also be limited.
Flood insurance policies may not cover:
- temporary housing expenses
- vehicles
- outdoor property
- landscaping
- cash or important documents
- mold caused by neglected maintenance
Certain items may have coverage limitations depending on the policy type.
Common Flood Insurance Coverage Examples
| Flood Insurance Coverage |
Typically Covered? |
| Structural Damage |
Yes |
| Electrical Systems |
Yes |
| Appliances |
Usually |
| Furniture |
Sometimes |
| Temporary Housing |
No |
| Vehicles |
No |
| Landscaping |
No |
Coverage limits, exclusions, deductibles, and waiting periods vary by policy and carrier.
Replacement Cost Value (RCV)
RCV pays the cost to repair or replace your home without deducting depreciation. This typically applies to primary residences insured at a certain value.
Actual Cash Value (ACV)
ACV pays the depreciated value of items at the time of loss. Most personal belongings are covered under ACV.
Do you need flood insurance in Florida?
Flood policies are highly recommended for Florida residents, even outside high-risk flood zones. Many floods occur in moderate- to low-risk areas, and standard homeowners insurance does not provide coverage.
What makes flood insurance important in Florida?
Florida homeowners face flood risks from:
- hurricanes
- tropical storms
- storm surge
- heavy rainfall
- overflowing drainage systems
Even properties outside high-risk flood zones can experience flooding.
What Is a Flood Zone?
Flood zones are geographic areas identified by FEMA based on flood risk. Insurance requirements and pricing may vary depending on:
- elevation
- property location
- flood history
- lender requirements
Homes located in high-risk flood zones may require flood insurance if financed.