When you have home owner’s insurance it covers flood damage, right? Not always. In many situations flooding isn’t covered which means homeowners need to seek out separate coverage. This is especially necessary if your home is located in a high-risk flood zone. However, even homes situated in moderate- to low-risk zones should consider including coverage for their property.

You may find your home mortgage lender will require you to purchase flood insurance if they warrant the risk is present.

But doesn’t a homeowner’s insurance cover water damage?

It depends on the source of the water. Let’s take a closer look with this example: Damage directly resulting from standard rainfall is typically covered by a homeowner’s insurance. An example could include damage from an overflowing spouting.

Damage from water accumulated on the ground which enters your home, such as during a flood or overflowing creek, would be compensated from your flood insurance. Once the water touches the ground and then enters your home, the damage resulting from this action is the result of flooding conditions.

The National Flood Insurance Program follows this definition of a flood: A general and temporary condition of partial or complete inundation of two or more acres of normally dry land area or of two or more properties (at least one of which is your property) from overflow of inland or tidal waters, from unusual and rapid accumulation or runoff of surface waters from any source or from mudflow.

2020 Houston Hurricane Season Starts Soon

Houston hurricane season officially begins on June 1 and runs through November 30. Are you preparing? Are you thinking about potential flooding from a hurricane? There is a 30-day wait period for flood insurance policy to go into effect if you’re not purchasing this type of insurance in conjunction with the purchase of a home. Make your plans now to speak with your insurance provider so you have the coverage you need.

Fast Facts About Flood Insurance

• Everyone lives in a flood zone. The risk of flood varies by location.
• Studies show 20% flood claims originate from moderate-to-low flood zones.
• Government aid isn’t guaranteed. While government loans and disaster assistance can be opened up in times of need, a federal disaster area needs to be declared before you see any aid.
• $30,000 is the average flood claim. The reality is your potential flood claim could be much higher if emergency responders need to cut a hole in your roof to rescue you and your family from the high water. 

As you weigh the decision to purchase flood insurance consider, how much coverage you may need to replace your home’s inventory and if you may need to make repairs or will be rebuilding your home. Ask your insurance agent about each of your options.

Since 2004 Sara Lyn Nguyen continues to bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise about buying and selling real estate around the Houston area to those she serves. Sara is a multi-year award winning REALTOR® and relocation specialist where her clients trust her to have up-to-date information on the real estate market. She has been one of Gary Greene’s Multi-Million Dollar Top Producers every year and was the #1 Top Producing agent in 2019 citywide. Sara is an American Dream TV Power Player who shares Houston real estate news with television viewers. When it’s time to buy, sell, invest, or relocate speak with a trusted professional knowledgeable in the homes and neighborhoods of Fort Bend/Sugar Land and the surrounding region.