What is Flood Insurance?
Flood insurance is a type of policy that protects homeowners, renters, and businesses from financial losses caused by flooding. It covers damages resulting from overflowing rivers, heavy rainfall, storm surges, and other natural flood events. Standard homeowners insurance policies typically do not cover flood-related damages, making standalone flood insurance essential for those living in flood-prone areas, especially in Florida.
What Does Flood Insurance Cover?
Flood insurance generally provides coverage for the following:
Structural Damage
Repairs to your home’s foundation, walls, floors, and other structural components due to flooding.
Personal Belongings
Replacement or repair of damaged items such as furniture, appliances, electronics, and clothing.
Detached Structures
Coverage for garages, sheds, or other detached buildings on your property (if included in the policy).
Electrical and Plumbing Systems
Repairs to wiring, HVAC systems, plumbing, and water heaters damaged by floodwaters.
Cleanup Costs
Expenses for removing debris and cleaning up after a flood event.
What Doesn’t Flood Insurance Cover?
- Groundwater or Sewer Backups: Damage caused by sewer backups or groundwater seepage unless it resulted directly from a flood event and is covered by the policy.
- Additional Living Expenses: Temporary housing or living expense costs while your home is under repair (most flood policies don’t include this unless added).
- Exterior Property: Landscaping, swimming pools, decks, patios, and fences are typically not covered.
- Vehicles: Damage to cars and other vehicles due to flooding is not covered by flood insurance—it’s usually included in comprehensive auto insurance policies.
- Small Damages Below the Deductible: Any damage less than your policy’s deductible amount.
Ask the right questions to find the best auto insurance for you
To choose the most suitable flood insurance for your needs, consider asking the following questions:
- Am I located in a high-risk flood zone?
- How much coverage do I need for my home’s structure and personal belongings?
- What is the deductible, and how does it affect my premium?
- Does the policy include any exclusions that I should be aware of?
- Can I add coverage for additional living expenses or other extras?
- Is coverage available through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), or should I consider private insurers?
- What is the waiting period for the policy to go into effect?
- Are there discounts for bundling my flood insurance with other policies?
- How does this policy address specific flood risks during hurricane season?
By working with a knowledgeable agency like Culbertson Agency, you can ensure your plan is customized to meet your needs and keep your property protected, even during Florida’s unpredictable hurricane season.
