Insurance
Flood Insurance: What It Costs and What to Check
Published September 24, 2026 · Last updated September 26, 2026
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The short answer
Regular home and renters insurance don't cover floods. You need a separate flood policy. Most come from the federal program (NFIP) and usually take 30 days to start.
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What affects your flood insurance price
Price range
Flood prices vary a lot from home to home, so we don't list a national average. The NFIP sets each home's price based on that home's own flood risk. Not a quote or an offer. Your price comes from the insurance company.
What moves the number
The NFIP looks at your home's own risk, including:
- How close you are to water, and what kind of flooding is likely (rivers, rain, storm surge).
- How high your home sits. Homes built up higher usually cost less to cover.
- Your foundation type.
- Past flood claims on the home.
- What it costs to rebuild your home.
What NFIP flood insurance covers
- The building: up to $250,000.
- Your things: up to $100,000. This is a separate policy, so ask for it.
- Basements: coverage is limited. Most things you keep in a basement aren't covered.
If your home is worth more, private flood insurance can cover higher amounts.
What to ask before you choose
- "When does my coverage start?" NFIP policies usually take 30 days.
- "Is contents coverage included, or separate?"
- "What's covered in my basement?"
- "Can I get private flood insurance?" It may cost less or cover more, depending on your home.
- "Would raising my utilities or adding flood vents lower my price?"
The catch: you don't have to live in a flood zone to flood. Many flood claims come from homes outside high-risk areas. And because of the 30-day wait, you can't buy it when a storm is on the way. Buy it before you need it.
Related pages
People comparing this often look at Water Damage Restoration.
Manufactured homes on a permanent foundation can get flood coverage too. See mobile home insurance.
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