Floodwater doesn't check your ZIP code.
Rising rivers. Flash floods. Gulf Coast storms. Here's what Texas homeowners should know about flood insurance, what it covers and why waiting for the forecast isn't a plan.
Rain is free.
Flood damage isn't.
Texas gets its share of serious rain. From Gulf Coast hurricanes to Hill Country flash floods, water can find its way into places you'd rather keep dry.
Here's the important part: most homeowners insurance doesn't cover flooding. That's where flood insurance comes in.
What is flood insurance?
Flood insurance helps pay for covered damage caused directly by flooding, such as rising water entering your home after heavy rainfall.
It's generally purchased separately from your homeowners policy.
Your home's structure.
Can cover eligible flood damage to your foundation, electrical systems, plumbing and permanently installed appliances.
The things inside.
Can cover eligible flood damage to belongings such as furniture, clothing and electronics.
Important: building and contents are different.
With NFIP insurance, you'll need to select building coverage and contents coverage separately if you want protection for both.
But I'm not in a flood zone.
You might not be in a designated high-risk flood area, but that doesn't mean your home can't flood.
Heavy rainfall, overflowing creeks and overwhelmed drainage systems can affect properties outside mapped high-risk areas.
Know your designation.
Certain high-risk flood zones can trigger flood insurance requirements for federally backed mortgages.
Not zero risk.
Flooding can still occur outside high-risk zones, including after unusually intense rainfall.
NFIP or private?
Let's compare.
Texas homeowners can explore flood insurance through the federal National Flood Insurance Program or participating private insurers.
National Flood Insurance Program
The NFIP offers standardized flood insurance for eligible properties in participating communities.
Residential policies offer up to $250,000 in building coverage and $100,000 in contents coverage.
Private flood insurance
Private insurers may offer different coverage limits, deductibles and policy features.
Availability and pricing depend on your property and the insurer.
Which should you choose?
Compare coverage limits, exclusions, deductibles, waiting periods and claims provisions. If your lender requires flood insurance, confirm that your policy meets its requirements.
Read the fine print before the rain.
Flood insurance has limits and exclusions, just like other insurance policies.
Where will you stay?
NFIP policies don't cover additional living expenses if flood damage forces you out of your home.
Special restrictions apply.
NFIP coverage for basement improvements and belongings is limited. Review the specific rules.
Different policy.
Flood insurance doesn't cover your car. Comprehensive auto coverage generally covers eligible vehicle flood damage.
Different cause. Different coverage.
Flood insurance doesn't replace homeowners or windstorm coverage for damage caused by wind.
Storm on the radar?
It may be too late.
NFIP flood insurance generally has a 30-day waiting period before coverage begins. Certain exceptions apply, including some mortgage-related purchases.
Private policies may have different waiting periods. Always confirm the effective date before purchasing.
The takeaway?
Don't wait until a hurricane is approaching or your neighborhood is under a flood warning to explore coverage.
Every property is different.
Flood insurance pricing depends on several factors, including your property's flood risk and the coverage you select.
Proximity to water, local flood hazards and property-specific risk can affect pricing.
Elevation, foundation type and other construction details may affect your premium.
The amount of building and contents coverage you select affects the cost.
A higher deductible may lower your premium but increases what you pay toward a covered claim.
Can you reduce your flood risk?
Certain improvements, such as elevating vulnerable utilities or qualifying flood mitigation measures, may reduce risk and potentially affect insurance costs.
Oh yeah.
Insurance.
Flood insurance isn't just for beachfront homes. And figuring out which policy makes sense shouldn't require a degree in meteorology.
Hey Charley is independent, so we can help you explore available flood insurance options and compare them alongside your homeowners coverage.
We'll help you understand your options, coverage limits, deductibles and waiting periods before the next big downpour.
Don't wait
for the water.
Whether you're in a high-risk flood zone or just want to understand your options, let Charley help you explore flood coverage for your home.
LET CHARLEY TAKE A LOOK →