A general and temporary condition of partial or complete inundation of normally dry land areas from overflow of inland or tidal waters or from the unusual and rapid accumulation or runoff of surface waters from any source.

After a community joins the NFIP, a policy may be purchased from any licensed property insurance agent or broker who is in good standing in the State in which the agent is licensed or through any agent representing a Write Your Own (WYO) company.

No! Most homeowners policies do not offer protection against flood damage.

Rates are based on the amount of insurance purchased; location; age of the building; building occupancy; design of the building; and, for buildings in SFHAs, the elevation of the building in relation to the base flood elevation.

A primary residence should be insured for at least 80% of its Replacement Cost Value (RCV) or the maximum amount available.

Up to $250,000 for a single family, two-to-four family, and other residential buildings.
Up to $500,000 for non-residential buildings, including small businesses.
Up to $100,000 for contents coverage for residences for owners and/or renters.
Up to $500,000 for contents for businesses, including small businesses.

There is a 26% chance of experiencing a flood during the life of a 30-year mortgage compared to a 4% chance of a fire.

NFIP coverage is available to all owners of insurable property in a community participating in the NFIP.

Flood Insurance coverage is available for a 1 year term.

Normally, there is a 30-day waiting period before flood insurance takes effect unless the initial purchase is in connection with a loan closing or mortgage portfolio review.

FEMA publishes maps indicating a community's flood hazard areas and the degree of risk in those areas. Flood insurance maps usually are on file in a local repository in the community. Also, an owner may contact a flood determination company.