Flood is excluded from standard policies
Your homeowners or renters policy won't pay for rising-water flood damage. Flood coverage comes through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or private flood insurers, as its own policy.
Risk isn't just "on the coast"
Flooding happens well outside coastal and mapped high-risk zones — heavy rain, overwhelmed storm drains, and nearby rivers cause inland flooding too. A large share of flood claims come from areas not designated high-risk, which is why many owners outside flood zones still carry it.
How to decide
Consider your elevation, proximity to water, local history, and whether a lender requires it. An independent agent can pull your flood-zone designation, compare NFIP and private options, and help you weigh the cost against the risk — without pressure to buy.