Standard homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage. Flood insurance is a separate policy — and one of the most important gaps to fill.
Flood insurance is a standalone policy completely separate from your homeowners coverage. It is available through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and covers physical damage caused by flooding — water overflowing from a body of water, storm surge, heavy rainfall that cannot drain, or similar events.
You don't need to live near a river or coast. Heavy rain, poor drainage, and flash flooding affect communities across North Carolina regularly.
Just one inch of floodwater inside a home can cause tens of thousands of dollars in damage to floors, walls, furniture, and appliances.
Federal aid after a declared disaster averages under $2,500 — far short of what most recoveries require. Disaster loans average $50,000+ and cost $300 or more per month for 18 or more years of repayment.
Insurance premiums are paid by those who choose to protect themselves. Disaster relief is funded by all taxpayers — often paid back at personal financial cost to the recipient through long-term loans.
30-day waiting period: New flood policies typically require a 30-day waiting period before coverage becomes effective. Do not wait until a storm is approaching — purchase now.
Anyone in a community that participates in the National Flood Insurance Program can purchase flood insurance — homeowners, renters, condo owners, and business owners. You do not need to be in a high-risk flood zone to qualify or benefit from coverage.
If your property has a federally backed mortgage and is located in a Special Flood Hazard Area (designated on FEMA flood maps), flood insurance is legally required by your lender. Even outside of SFHAs, flood insurance is strongly recommended — more than 25% of all flood claims come from low-to-moderate risk areas.