Standard homeowners insurance does not cover flooding. However, in order to have proper protection from floods associated with heavy rains, hurricanes, tropical storms, and other conditions that impact the District, flood insurance is often essential. Flood insurance provides a better alternative to disaster aid, and helps reduce the rising costs of restoring flood-damaged buildings and their contents after a flood.
The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) offers flood insurance that can be purchased through property and casualty insurance agents. Rates are set and do not differ from company to company or agent to agent. These rates depend on many factors, including the date and type of construction of your home and your building's level of risk. There are two types of flood insurance policies. One type insures your building and the other insures its contents. Neither type of flood insurance covers your land.
Building coverage includes:
- The insured building and its foundation
- The electrical and plumbing system
- Central air conditioning equipment, furnaces, and water heaters
- Refrigerators, cooking stoves, and built-in appliances such as dishwashers
- Permanently installed carpeting over unfinished flooring
Contents coverage includes:
- Clothing, furniture, and electronic equipment
- Curtains " Portable and window air conditioners
- Portable microwaves and dishwashers
- Carpeting that is not already included in property coverage
- Clothing washers and dryers
For more information, visit floodsmart.gov. For a list of agents licensed in your area please contact the District Department of Insurance Securities and Banking (DISB), (202) 727-8000.
Keep in Mind
Most insurance providers only cover one building and its contents per policy. However, there are some insurance companies that will cover multiple buildings on one policy with the requirement that a specific amount of insurance be designated for each building and that all buildings must have the same ownership.
There are some buildings that cannot be covered. Flood insurance does not cover those buildings that FEMA determines have been declared in violation of local floodplain management regulations by state or local zoning authorities.
Helpful tips on how to be adequately prepared for a flood:
- Be prepared for flood hazards by viewing the District's floodplain maps and determining your risk.
- Make sure you and your families are aware of all potential hazards in your community.
- Purchase the appropriate flood insurance for your property.
- Make sure you know escape routes, evacuation plans and have insurance records readily available.
- Keep all necessary supplies, such as first aid kits, clothing, tools, non-perishable foods and water, easily accessible.