In Florida, water can come from storm surge, heavy rain, overflowing canals or a stalled tropical system. Standard homeowners insurance doesn't cover flooding, so we compare federal NFIP and private flood options to find the right protection for your home and budget.
Here are the main types of flood coverage we help Florida homeowners, renters and business owners compare.
1
NFIP Flood Insurance
Federal flood coverage backed by FEMA.
Offered through the National Flood Insurance Program and sold through agents like us.
Covers up to $250,000 for your home's structure and $100,000 for contents.
Priced on your property's individual flood risk.
Usually has a 30-day waiting period before coverage starts.
Best for: Homeowners who want dependable, government-backed flood protection.
2
Private Flood Insurance
More options beyond the federal program.
Offered by private insurance companies instead of FEMA.
Can offer higher coverage limits than the NFIP.
Waiting periods are often shorter, depending on the carrier.
May include extras like temporary living expenses and replacement cost for belongings.
Best for: Higher-value homes or anyone who wants more flexible coverage.
3
Building Coverage
Protects the structure of your home.
Covers the foundation, walls, floors and permanently installed fixtures.
Includes electrical, plumbing, HVAC and water heaters.
Covers built-in appliances, cabinets and permanently installed flooring.
Helps pay for cleanup and debris removal after a flood.
Best for: Every homeowner, and often required by mortgage lenders in high-risk zones.
4
Contents Coverage
Protects the things inside your home.
Covers furniture, clothing, electronics and other personal belongings.
Includes portable items like washers, dryers and freezers.
Purchased separately from building coverage.
Renters can buy contents coverage on its own.
Best for: Homeowners and renters who want their belongings protected too.
5
Excess Flood Insurance
Extra protection above standard limits.
Adds coverage on top of an NFIP or primary flood policy.
Helps when your home is worth more than the $250,000 NFIP limit.
Can also increase coverage for high-value belongings.
Best for: Waterfront and higher-value homes where standard limits fall short.
6
Commercial Flood Insurance
Flood protection for your business.
Covers commercial buildings, equipment, inventory and supplies.
NFIP commercial coverage goes up to $500,000 for the building and $500,000 for contents.
Private options can offer higher limits and business income coverage.
Best for: Business owners, landlords and property managers in flood-prone areas.
NFIP vs. Private Flood
A quick look at how the two main sources of flood insurance compare.
Comparison of NFIP and private flood insurance
Feature
NFIP Flood
Private Flood
Backed by
FEMA (federal government)
Private insurance companies
Max building coverage
$250,000 (residential)
Often higher, varies by carrier
Max contents coverage
$100,000
Often higher, varies by carrier
Waiting period
Usually 30 days
Often shorter, varies by carrier
Belongings paid at
Actual cash value
Replacement cost often available
Temporary living expenses
Not included
Often available
Accepted by mortgage lenders
Yes
Yes, when lender requirements are met
Private flood coverage, limits and waiting periods vary by carrier. We'll compare both options side by side for your property.
Flood Facts Every Floridian Should Know
Flooding is the most common natural disaster in the U.S., and Florida sees more than its share.
$0
Flood damage your homeowners policy covers
Standard homeowners insurance policies do not cover water damage caused by water that rises from the ground and enters the home from the outside, whether due to hurricanes, storm surge, prolonged rainfall, or sewer backups resulting from flooding. Even if floodwaters damage your home's exterior or erode its foundation, homeowners insurance typically will not cover those losses. That's why having separate flood insurance is essential.
1 inch
Of water can cause up to $25,000 in damage
FEMA estimates even shallow flooding can lead to costly repairs to floors, walls and belongings.
40%+
Of NFIP flood claims come from outside high-risk zones
According to FEMA, flooding happens well beyond the high-risk areas on the map.
30 days
Is the usual NFIP waiting period
Most flood policies don't start right away, so don't wait until a storm is in the forecast.
Don't Wait for the Next Storm.
Most flood policies take 30 days to start. Let's get yours in place before you need it.