• If you own a home, condo or business in a high-risk flood zone and have a government-backed mortgage you are required to have flood insurance.
• Anywhere it rains, it can flood, even in moderate to low-risk zones. Flood insurance can help protect your home and personal property from financial losses.
• Your chances of flooding over 30 years are 5x higher than a home fire.

Everyone lives in an area with some flood risk, it’s just a question of whether you live in a high, moderate or low-risk area.

• Use the CID’s free Risk Mapping Tool to learn about the flooding risk that may affect your property.
• Visit the FEMA Flood Map Service Center to find which risk level applies to your property.
• You can also check with town hall and/or planning & zoning officials, who generally have flood plain maps for your town.
• Your insurance agent can also help you find that information.

Where to buy

• Contact your insurance company or agent
• Visit FEMA FloodSmart to search for a participating carrier or agent in your area
• Flood insurance may also be available in the private market as an alternative to buying a policy through the federal government. Talk to your agent about these options

The cost

Your premium for flood insurance will vary depending on:

• Your risk level for a flood loss
• The amount of coverage chosen
• The type of coverage you need
• Preferred deductible

You may be eligible for discounts, learn more from the Flood Insurance Mitigation Discount Tool

There is a 30-day waiting period for the policy to take effect, any flooding within those 30 days is not covered

The process for reporting a claim is the same as reporting a homeowner or renters claim

• Report your loss immediately to your insurance agent or carrier
• Document damage
• Make temporary repairs if necessary to prevent further damage