At Harris Insurance, one of the most common conversations we have with clients is about flood insurance. Many Florida homeowners are surprised to learn that their property may be more vulnerable than they think—and that their homeowners insurance doesn’t cover flood damage.
To help clear up confusion, we’ve pulled together some of the top flood insurance questions we hear from clients (and their answers).
Q1: If I’m not in a “flood zone,” do I need flood insurance?
Yes. Technically, every property in Florida is in a flood zone—the question is whether it’s considered low-risk, moderate-risk, or high-risk. Even if your mortgage company doesn’t require it, floods can still happen. In fact, about one-third of flood claims come from outside high-risk zones.
Having flood insurance, even in a lower-risk area, can save you from devastating out-of-pocket repair costs.
Q2: Doesn’t my homeowners policy cover flooding?
No. Standard homeowners insurance covers things like wind, fire, or theft—but not rising water from floods. If water enters your home because of storm surge, heavy rain, or overflowing rivers, that damage is only covered if you have a separate flood insurance policy.
Q3: Flood insurance sounds expensive. How much does it cost?
The cost of flood insurance depends on:
- Your property’s location and elevation
- The age and construction of your home
- Whether you get coverage through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or a private flood insurer
The good news? Many policies are more affordable than homeowners expect—especially in lower-risk zones. Plus, the peace of mind often outweighs the premium.
Q4: What’s an elevation certificate, and do I need one?
An elevation certificate measures your property’s risk by comparing your home’s elevation to base flood levels. It can help insurers set accurate rates—and sometimes lower your premium if your home sits above flood levels.
Not every property requires one, but if you live in a high-risk area, it’s worth discussing with your insurance agent.
Q5: How do I know how much coverage I need?
Coverage depends on whether you want to protect just the structure of your home, or your belongings as well. NFIP policies cover up to:
- $250,000 for the building
- $100,000 for contents
Private flood insurance may offer higher limits or broader options. At Harris Insurance, we’ll help you compare policies to find the right balance for your needs.
Q6: When should I buy flood insurance?
Before you need it. Flood insurance policies usually have a 30-day waiting period before they take effect (unless it’s lender-required for closing). That means you can’t wait until a hurricane is already on the radar—you’ll want coverage in place well before storm season.
Why Every Florida Homeowner Should Consider Flood Insurance
Flooding is the most common natural disaster in the U.S., yet many homeowners remain uninsured against it. Whether you’re in Pensacola, Tampa, or Orlando, Florida’s changing climate means flood insurance is worth considering no matter your zone.
At Harris Insurance, our team can answer your specific questions, compare NFIP and private options, and tailor a policy to protect your home and belongings.
Contact us today for a free, no-obligation flood insurance quote.
LEGAL DISCLAIMER
Views expressed here do not constitute legal advice. The information contained herein is for general guidance of matter only and not for the purpose of providing legal advice. Discussion of insurance policy language is descriptive only. Every policy has different policy language. Coverage afforded under any insurance policy issued is subject to individual policy terms and conditions. Please refer to your policy for the actual language.
