Why Flood Insurance Is Becoming Essential for Nearly All Homeowners

With the Atlantic hurricane season approaching, now is an opportune moment for homeowners to consider securing flood insurance—even those residing far from hurricane-prone coastal zones.

Recent forecasts from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration indicate an above-average hurricane season ahead. Between June 1 and November, NOAA anticipates up to 19 named storms, with six to ten potentially intensifying into hurricanes. Typically, an average season sees 14 named storms and seven hurricanes.

Insurance specialists emphasize that flood insurance is not solely necessary for coastal property owners. Inland regions have experienced significant flooding recently, driven by climate change-related severe storms that unleash heavy rainfall.

Does Standard Homeowner Insurance Cover Flood Damage?

Standard homeowner insurance policies do not include coverage for flood damage, which remains the most frequent and expensive natural disaster in the United States.

Flood insurance, which typically protects against damage from rising water entering a property, must be purchased separately. It is available through the federal government’s National Flood Insurance Program or certain private insurers. While federally backed mortgage holders in designated high-risk zones are often required to have flood coverage, it remains optional for most other homeowners.

Is Flood Insurance Necessary for Those Living Inland?

Experts advise that even homeowners away from coastal areas should assess their need for flood protection.

For example, in September, Hurricane Helene struck Florida’s Gulf Coast as a powerful Category 4 hurricane before moving hundreds of miles inland. The storm brought heavy rainfall to six states and resulted in unprecedented flooding in western North Carolina.