Do I Need Flood Insurance?
It's important to note that, as a rule, homeowners, condo owners, and renters insurance does not cover damage from flooding. To protect your home, be sure to understand the risk of flooding and your insurance options.
You will need flood insurance if you live in a designated flood zone. But flooding can also occur in inland areas and away from major rivers. Consider buying a flood insurance policy if your house could be flooded by melting snow, an overflowing creek or pond, or water running down a steep hill.
Flood insurance is available for renters and homeowners, but, like earthquake insurance, it is not part of standard homeowners coverage.
Flood policies are provided separately by the federal government and dozens of private insurers.
If you think you need flood insurance, don’t wait for a flood season warning on the evening news to buy a policy. There is a 30-day waiting period before the coverage takes effect for National Flood Insurance Program policies.