What Are Flood Insurance Waiting Periods?
- FloodPrice
- Oct 26, 2020
- 4 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
What Are Flood Insurance Waiting Periods?
It’s the time between when you purchase your policy and when coverage begins. If flooding happens during that window, you won’t be covered.
NFIP vs Private Flood Insurance Waiting Periods
Both the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and the private insurance market have waiting periods. Those looking for a shorter waiting period might want to consider buying flood insurance from a private insurer instead of the National Flood Insurance Program.
NFIP Waiting Period
30 Days – Standard waiting period
1 Day – If your area is remapped to a high-risk flood zone*
0 Days - Waived when purchasing a new home, and the lender requires flood insurance
Private Flood Insurance Waiting Period
10-15 Days – Standard waiting period
0 Days - Waived when purchasing a new home, and the lender requires flood insurance
0 Days – Waived for policy transfers in some cases
There are several exceptions to the waiting periods for both NFIP and private flood
policies. For example, if you’ve recently purchased a home and your lender requires you to carry flood insurance, there is no waiting period for your coverage to go into effect. Similarly, if remapping in your area determines that your property is actually in a high-risk flood zone, the waiting period is lowered to one day, if a flood policy is purchased within 13 months of the new flood zone determination. Notably, there is no waiting period for those replacing an NFIP policy with a non-NFIP policy, provided that the premium is paid within 30 days of the old policy’s expiration.
Despite the exceptions to mandatory waiting periods and the availability of shorter waiting periods through private insurers, it’s always best for property owners to prepare well in advance of potential disasters. Evaluate your flood risk as soon as possible to help reduce costly damages from spring flooding, hurricane season, and more.
Why Is There a Waiting Period for Flood Insurance?
It might seem frustrating to buy flood insurance and then find out you have to wait before your coverage begins. But there’s a good reason for it.
Flood insurance waiting periods exist to prevent last-minute policy purchases when a storm is already on the way. For example, if a hurricane or major storm is in the forecast, some homeowners might try to buy a policy right before the rain starts—once the risk is already high. Insurance companies can’t offer immediate coverage in those situations, because it would be like buying car insurance after a crash.
Instead, insurers set a standard waiting period to make sure people are getting covered before a flood threat appears, not after. This helps keep flood insurance fair and sustainable for everyone—especially for those who’ve had a policy in place all along.
The bottom line? Don’t wait until a storm is heading your way. It’s best to buy flood insurance well before heavy rain or hurricane season begins.
"Need flood insurance? Get your flood insurance quote online today! Compare rates from the NFIP and trusted private carriers in minutes."
When to Buy Flood Insurance
Buy before peak flood seasons like spring (snowmelt) and late summer/fall (hurricane season).
Purchasing a home or refinancing? Flood insurance tied to a mortgage often qualifies for immediate coverage—a smart way to skip the wait. Learn more about flood insurance for homebuyers.
Switching or renewing a policy? Keeping your coverage active without a lapse often avoids a new waiting period. See how private flood insurance compares.
After major home upgrades, like finishing a basement or building an addition, your flood exposure and property value may change. Make sure your flood coverage matches your home's value.
Noticing more flooding nearby? Shifts in local weather, heavier storms, or drainage issues may increase your risk. Use our Flood Zone Lookup Tool to see your current FEMA flood zone.
Tip: The best time to buy flood insurance is before the skies darken. You can get a quote online in minutes from both NFIP and trusted private carriers.
Flood Insurance Waiting Period FAQ
1. What is a flood insurance waiting period?
It’s the time between when you purchase your policy and when coverage begins. The NFIP typically requires 30 days. If flooding happens during that window, you won’t be covered.
2. Are there exceptions to the 30-day NFIP waiting period?
Yes—some buyers qualify for reduced waiting periods:
When coverage is required for a mortgage closing
After a flood map change within the last 13 months*
When renewing without a lapse in coverage
3. How fast is private flood insurance coverage?
Many private insurers offer waiting periods of 7–15 days. In some cases—like home closings or policy transfers—there’s no wait at all. Compare NFIP and private options.
4. What if I wait to buy until a storm is forecasted?
Buying too late means no coverage during the waiting period, even if you purchased before the storm hits. That’s why it’s critical to act before the forecast.
5. Do I need flood insurance in a low-risk zone?
Yes. FEMA data shows over 20% of flood claims come from low- to moderate-risk areas. If you’re in a low-risk zone, flood insurance may be more affordable than you think.
Quote Now, Be Covered When It Counts
Flood insurance waiting periods are all about timing and being prepared before the water starts to rise. Whether you're buying a new home, renewing a policy, or simply planning ahead of storm season, understanding when coverage begins is key to avoiding gaps. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Quote NFIP and private flood insurance side by side using our quick online tool. We shop rates from top-rated carriers to help search for the best price and the right protection, fast.
*If a FEMA flood map revision newly places your property in a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA), NFIP policies may be subject to a 1-day waiting period instead of the standard 30 days, provided the application and payment are received within 13 months of the map change. Otherwise, the 30-day waiting period applies.
**Disclaimer: The information on this site is provided for general guidance and informational purposes only. We make no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the content. All liability for any reliance on the information is expressly disclaimed.
