Flood Insurance
Flooding is Florida's most common natural disaster. Standard homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage. Understanding flood risk and insurance options is essential for protecting your property and financial security.
Important: Flood Insurance is Separate
Standard homeowners insurance does NOT cover flood damage. Flood insurance must be purchased separately through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or private insurers.
Even if you're not in a high-risk flood zone, flooding can occur anywhere. Consider flood insurance even if it's not required by your mortgage lender.
Understanding FEMA Flood Zones
High-Risk Zones (Flood Insurance Required)
- Zone A: Areas with 1% annual chance of flooding (100-year floodplain)
- Zone AE: Areas with 1% annual chance of flooding with base flood elevations
- Zone AH: Areas with 1% annual chance of shallow flooding (1-3 feet)
- Zone AO: Areas with 1% annual chance of shallow flooding (sheet flow)
- Zone V: Coastal areas with 1% annual chance of flooding with wave action
- Zone VE: Coastal areas with 1% annual chance of flooding with base flood elevations
Note: If your property is in a high-risk zone and you have a mortgage, your lender will require flood insurance.
Moderate to Low-Risk Zones
- Zone X (Shaded): Areas with 0.2% annual chance of flooding (500-year floodplain)
- Zone X (Unshaded): Areas outside the 500-year floodplain
- Zone D: Areas with undetermined flood risk
Important: Even in low-risk zones, flooding can occur. About 25% of flood insurance claims come from areas outside high-risk zones.
Check Your Flood Zone
Use FEMA's Flood Map Service Center to find your property's flood zone:
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)
Coverage Options
Building Coverage
- Up to $250,000 coverage
- Covers structure and foundation
- Electrical and plumbing systems
- HVAC systems
- Built-in appliances
Contents Coverage
- Up to $100,000 coverage
- Personal belongings
- Furniture and electronics
- Clothing and appliances
- Valuables (limited)
Key Information
- 30-Day Waiting Period: Coverage typically begins 30 days after purchase (except for new loans)
- Annual Premiums: Vary based on flood zone, elevation, and coverage amount
- Deductibles: Separate deductibles for building and contents coverage
- Renewal: Policies must be renewed annually
How to Purchase
NFIP flood insurance is sold through licensed insurance agents. You can:
- Contact your homeowners insurance agent
- Use the NFIP agent locator to find a local agent
- Call the NFIP directly at 1-888-379-9531
Private Flood Insurance
In addition to NFIP, private insurers also offer flood insurance. Private policies may offer:
- Higher coverage limits
- Additional coverage options
- Potentially lower premiums (compare carefully)
- Shorter waiting periods
Important: If you have a mortgage, ensure private flood insurance meets your lender's requirements. Compare NFIP and private options to find the best coverage for your needs.
Flood Preparedness
Before a Flood
- Know your flood risk and evacuation routes
- Create an inventory of your belongings (photos/video)
- Store important documents in a waterproof container
- Elevate valuable items in your home
- Install sump pumps and check valves
- Review your flood insurance policy annually
During a Flood
- Evacuate if advised by authorities
- Move to higher ground
- Avoid walking or driving through floodwaters
- Turn off utilities if instructed
- Stay informed through local news and weather alerts
After a Flood
- Document all damage with photos and videos
- Contact your insurance company immediately
- Keep records of all expenses related to the flood
- Do not enter flooded areas until authorities say it's safe
- Be cautious of electrical hazards and contaminated water
Resources & Links
FEMA Flood Map Service Center
Find your property's flood zone and view flood maps.
Visit FEMA Flood Maps →National Flood Insurance Program
Official NFIP website with information, agent locator, and resources.
Phone: 1-888-379-9531
Visit NFIP Website →FloodSmart.gov
FEMA's official flood insurance website with cost estimator and resources.
Visit FloodSmart.gov →Questions About Flood Insurance?
For questions about flood insurance, flood zones, or flood preparedness, contact your insurance agent or FEMA. The Board can provide general information but cannot provide insurance advice.
Contact Board for General Information →