Florida residents face frequent coastal threats for flooding. When there’s a flood warning, homeowners may face significant property damage risks. Many residents assume that their homeowners insurance will cover any damage sustained during a hurricane or other flooding. However, homeowners insurance doesn’t insure against floods, and homeowners need to purchase separate flood insurance. 

C.J. Noel Insurance can help protect your home and property with a separate flood insurance policy that addresses your specific risks.

What Are Florida’s Flood Zones?

Florida has no “flood-free” zones, which means flood-causing weather could significantly impact your home. If your house is in a moderate- or high-risk zone, flood insurance is necessary. We can review your property’s location to determine suitable protection for your home.

According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), base flood elevation (BFE) is the elevation of surface water resulting from a flood with a 1% chance of equaling or exceeding that level in any given year.

In Florida, AE flood zones or any zone designated by the letters A or Z are prone to flooding. If you live in an AE zone and have a federally backed mortgage, you must purchase flood insurance.

How Does Flood Insurance Work? 

By filing a claim on your flood insurance plan, you may receive compensation for your losses and reduce your flood recovery costs. Flood insurance can save you from devastating losses and prevent you from the restoration costs that may be necessary after a flood.

The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) underwrites most flood insurance plans. If you live in a community that participates in the NFIP, you may purchase an NFIP plan. Usually, you can buy NFIP plans both through major insurers and the NFIP Direct system. Non-NFIP plans are also available, although they are less common. 

What Does Flood Insurance Cover in Florida? 

NFIP plans must comply with standards set by federal law. They offer two types of coverage: 

·       Structure insurance. This coverage protects the structure of your home. 

·       Contents coverage. This coverage insures the possessions inside your home. 

There may also be coverage for debris removal costs, loss avoidance and cost of compliance. 

Do I Need Flood Insurance?

You may be required to buy flood insurance if: 

·       You live in a designated high-risk flood zone, and you have a mortgage backed by a federally insured lender.  

·       Your lender requires its mortgage holders to purchase flood insurance regardless of whether you live in a high-risk zone. 

·       You live in a high-risk flood zone and have ever received disaster assistance through FEMA or the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). If you do not purchase a policy, you will typically not qualify for future aid. 

How We Can Help

C.J. Noel Insurance can help you determine which flood insurance options are the most suitable for your zone’s needs. Having a flood insurance plan in place as soon as you purchase your home is a great idea, and we can get you started. Call us today at 239-403-8391.