FLOOD RISK GOES BEYOND THE FLOOD MAP

With heavy rain moving across Connecticut, residents should remember one important message: If it rains, it can flood.

Flooding can happen anywhere, even in areas that have never flooded before or that fall outside mapped high-risk zones. A property does not need to appear on a flood map to face flood damage. About 40 percent of National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) claims come from homes and businesses located outside high risk flood areas.

Flood maps are a helpful starting point for understanding potential hazards, but they do not capture every circumstance that can lead to flooding. Local drainage issues, intense rainfall, rapid snowmelt and changing weather patterns can all create flood conditions that are not reflected on a map.

The Connecticut Insurance Department (CID) encourages consumers to take steps now to understand their flood risk, review their insurance coverage, and learn what options are available to help protect their homes, belongings, and finances.

Why Flooding Can Happen Outside Mapped Flood Zones

• Heavy rainfall that overwhelms storm drains or local drainage systems.
• Water entering basements or lower levels during intense storms.
• Snowmelt, coastal storms, or saturated ground conditions.
• Changing weather patterns that contribute to more frequent heavy rain events.

Steps Connecticut Residents Can Take Now

1. Check your flood risk and learn how water could affect your property.
2. Review your homeowners, renters, or business insurance policy.
3. Consider whether flood insurance may be appropriate for your situation.
4. Create a home inventory to document belongings before a loss occurs.

Tools to Help You Understand Your Risk

• Climate Risk Mapping Tool: Explore potential weather-related risks, including flood exposure, that may affect your property.
• CID Flood Insurance Information Center: Learn how flood insurance works, what coverage options are available, and what to consider when evaluating your protection.

Flood Insurance Basics

Standard homeowners and renters insurance policies generally do not cover flood damage. Flood insurance is available through the NFIP and private insurers.

Coverage options, limits, and costs vary by policy. Flood insurance policies often include a 30-day waiting period before coverage begins, so it’s important to review your options before severe weather occurs. Talk with your insurance company or agent to understand what coverage may be right for you.

Consumers should speak with their insurance company or agent to understand what type of protection may be appropriate for their needs.

Get Help

The CID Consumer Information Center provides resources to help consumers understand their insurance coverage, explore available options and make informed decisions.

If you have questions about your insurance coverage, need help understanding your policy or are having difficulty resolving an insurance issue, contact CID’s Consumer Affairs team.

Connecticut Insurance Department Consumer Affairs Division

Phone: 860-297-3900
Email: insurance@ct.gov