Do I Need Flood Insurance?
Updated: Jun 9, 2021
Do I Need Flood Insurance?
The devastation a hurricane can cause is well known. Most of us recall how entire communities were engulfed in water after the likes of Harvey and Katrina, but it doesn’t take a hurricane to flood your home. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), 90% of all natural disasters in the U.S. involve some type of flooding. Inland flooding, flash floods and flooding from seasonal storms occur in every region of the United States, (1) which is why more of us should be asking ourselves: Do I need flood insurance?
Those who have property located in a high-risk flood zone and a mortgage through a federally regulated or insured lender are required to purchase flood insurance. If you’re unsure whether or not you’re required to have Flood Insurance, check out our FEMA Flood Zone lookup tool to find out if you’re in a flood zone.
What if I’m not in a flood zone? Do I still need flood insurance?
If you’re in a low-risk flood zone, or just outside of a flood zone, that doesn’t mean there is “no risk” of flooding. FEMA’s flood maps are often outdated and may not account for recent construction in your area which can increase your flood risk. Additionally, climate change has had a considerable impact on water levels and gambling your home and belongings on a flood zone determination could be risky. In fact, more than 20 percent of flood claims come from properties outside of high-risk flood zones, so while it may not be required for your property, we highly recommend that you obtain flood insurance! While you can’t eliminate the threat of flooding, you can take measures to significantly reduce your risk, at least financially.
Where can I purchase flood insurance?
Many people may still believe that the federal government’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) is their only option for flood insurance, but fortunately, that is not the case. Flood policies are available through the private insurance market and often provide better coverage at much lower costs. That is where we come in. Get your free quote today! You might be surprised how much we can help you save.
