Homeowners policies typically cover sudden water damage like a burst pipe — but not flooding. Along the St. Lucie River, the Indian River Lagoon and the coast, even homes outside high-risk zones can flood, so it pays to understand your options.
Homeowners, condo owners, renters and businesses.
NFIP policies generally take 30 days to take effect — don’t wait for a storm.
Contents coverage, private excess flood.
What are my flood insurance options?
Many flood policies are written through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), available in participating communities and sold through agencies like ours. Private flood policies are another option and may offer higher limits. NFIP policies include two types of coverage:
- Building coverageProtects the structure — foundation, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, built-in appliances. NFIP residential limits go up to $250,000.
- Contents coverageProtects belongings — furniture, clothing, electronics. NFIP residential contents limits go up to $100,000.
NFIP policies generally take effect 30 days after purchase. The waiting period may be waived when a lender requires coverage as part of making, increasing, extending or renewing a loan.
Who needs flood insurance?
If you live in a high-risk flood zone and have a mortgage from a federally regulated or insured lender, flood insurance is required. It’s also required if you’ve previously received federal disaster assistance for flood. For everyone else, it’s strongly worth considering.
Florida tip: Look up your property’s flood zone on FEMA’s Flood Map Service Center, then call us — we’ll compare NFIP and private flood quotes side by side.
Learn more at FloodSmart.gov FEMA Flood Map Service Center
Flood insurance across the Treasure Coast
Our office is at 1165 SW 27th Street, Palm City, FL 34990, and we help clients with flood insurance throughout Martin and St. Lucie counties — and anywhere in Florida.
Frequently asked questions
Is flood damage covered by homeowners insurance?
No. Standard homeowners, condo and renters policies exclude flood, including storm surge. You need a separate flood policy.
How long does flood insurance take to start?
NFIP policies generally have a 30-day waiting period. Exceptions apply in certain lender-required situations. Some private flood policies have shorter waiting periods.
I’m not in a high-risk flood zone. Do I still need it?
Lender rules aside, many flood claims come from properties outside high-risk zones, and coverage there is often more affordable. Ask us for a quote before deciding.
Ready for your flood quote?
Free, no-obligation, and compared across multiple carriers.