Flooding is one of the most common natural disasters in Texas, and with the state’s unpredictable weather patterns, the risk of flooding can affect nearly every area. Whether you live along the Gulf Coast or in more inland areas like Dallas or Austin, you may wonder: Do I need flood insurance?
The short answer is: Yes. If you own property in Texas, flood insurance is a wise investment. Here’s why.
Why Flood Insurance is Important in Texas
While homeowners insurance typically covers damage from wind, hail, and other perils, it does not cover flood damage. Given that Texas experiences frequent heavy rains, hurricanes, and tropical storms, even homes outside high-risk flood zones can be vulnerable.
Here are some key facts about flooding in Texas:
Flash floods can happen in areas that have never seen flooding before.
Texas has experienced some of the most devastating floods in U.S. history, such as the flooding caused by Hurricane Harvey in 2017.
Just one inch of water in your home can cause thousands of dollars in damage.
How to Get Flood Insurance in Texas
Here’s a breakdown of your options:
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP): The NFIP is a federal program offering flood insurance to homeowners, renters, and businesses. The rates are set by the government, so they will be the same no matter which insurance company or agent you choose.
It’s a good idea to bundle your flood insurance with your homeowners insurance if possible. This way, if a major storm hits, you'll only need to deal with one company for your claims, making the process smoother.
Private Flood Insurance: If you want higher coverage limits or additional coverage beyond what the NFIP provides, you can opt for a private flood insurance policy.
Texas Flood Insurance Coverage
Here’s a look at the basic flood insurance coverage provided by the NFIP:
Up to $250,000 for your home’s structure.
Up to $100,000 for your personal belongings.
If you require coverage beyond these limits, the Thumann Agency can offer policies with higher limits.
For renters, flood insurance through the NFIP allows you to purchase up to $100,000 of coverage for personal property. While your landlord will be responsible for damage to the building, your possessions are your responsibility.
What an NFIP Policy in Texas Typically Covers:
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Standard Home Systems: Includes essential systems like your electrical wiring, furnace, water heater, plumbing, and air conditioning units.
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Installed Carpeting and Built-in Features: Covers built-in components such as carpeting, cabinets, bookcases, and paneling.
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Appliances and Personal Belongings: Appliances like refrigerators and washing machines are covered, as long as they are not stored in a basement. Personal items such as clothing, electronics, and furniture are also typically included.
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Foundation and Support Structures: Covers integral parts of the home, like staircases, provided they are permanently attached to the property.
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Detached Garage: You can apply up to 10% of your dwelling coverage towards a detached garage.
What an NFIP Policy Doesn't Cover:
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Damage from Earth Movement: Any damage caused by earth movement, such as sinkholes or landslides, even if triggered by flooding, is not covered. You’d need separate earthquake insurance for this.
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Damage to Basements or Items Stored There: Most flood-related damage to basements or belongings kept there isn’t covered by an NFIP policy.
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Sewer Backup Damage: Typically, homeowners insurance may cover sewer backups, but you’ll likely need to add a special policy endorsement, known as a water backup endorsement, for this type of protection.
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Damage to Vehicles: Flood damage to cars is not covered under flood insurance. Instead, your comprehensive auto insurance policy would handle such claims.
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Detached Structures and Landscaping: Most detached structures like sheds, plants, decks, patios, fences, and walkways are not covered by an NFIP policy.
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Relocation and Temporary Housing Expenses: Costs for temporary housing or moving are not included.
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Lost Income: The NFIP policy does not cover lost income if a flood disrupts your ability to work or run a business from your home.
Common Misconceptions About Flood Insurance
"My homeowners insurance covers flooding."
This is a common myth. Homeowners insurance generally does not cover damage caused by flooding. You’ll need separate flood insurance to protect your home and belongings from water damage due to floods.
"I don’t need flood insurance because I’m not in a flood zone."
Floods can happen anywhere, and more than 25% of flood claims come from properties located outside of high-risk flood zones. Even if you're not in a designated floodplain, unexpected flash floods or heavy rains can cause significant damage.
Frequently Asked Questions About Flood Insurance in Texas
1. Do I need flood insurance if I’m not in a high-risk zone?
Yes. More than 25% of flood insurance claims come from outside high-risk flood zones. Even if your property isn't in a designated floodplain, unexpected flash floods or storms can still cause damage.
2. How much does flood insurance cost in Texas?
The cost depends on various factors, including your location, flood risk, and the value of your property. On average, Texans pay between $325 and $1,000 per year for NFIP flood insurance.
3. Is flood insurance required by law?
Flood insurance is required by mortgage lenders if your property is located in a high-risk flood zone. However, even if it’s not mandatory, it’s strongly recommended for all Texas homeowners.
4. How long does it take for flood insurance to become active?
NFIP policies typically have a 30-day waiting period before they go into effect, so it’s crucial not to wait until a storm is on the horizon to get coverage.
Texas Flooding Facts
- Floods occur in all 254 counties in Texas.
- Texas has the highest number of flood-related fatalities in the U.S.
- In 2019, FEMA designated over 700,000 Texans as living in high-risk flood areas.
Local Flooding Events: A Reminder of the Risk
Texas has seen its share of devastating floods in recent years. One example is Tropical Storm Imelda in 2019, which brought over 40 inches of rain to parts of southeast Texas, causing widespread flooding. Even areas not previously considered at high risk were severely affected. Another example is the Bastrop County floods of 2015, which devastated Central Texas communities. Events like these show that no area is entirely safe from the threat of flooding.
Flood Preparedness Tips
While securing flood insurance is a crucial step, it’s also important to prepare for potential flooding with these tips:
- Elevate important utilities like electrical panels and HVAC systems to reduce the risk of flood damage.
- Create a flood emergency plan that includes evacuation routes and a safe place for important documents.
- Use sandbags or other barriers to protect your home from floodwaters during heavy rains.
To learn more, visit Recovery.texas.gov/preparedness
How to Check Your Property’s Flood Risk
One of the first steps in assessing your flood risk is checking whether you live in a flood zone. FEMA offers an online tool, the Flood Map Service Center, where you can enter your address and view the flood zone designation for your area.
Additionally, the Texas Water Development Board provides resources and maps to help homeowners and businesses understand their flood risks. Both are excellent resources for Texans looking to assess the threat of flooding in their area.
Why Choose the Thumann Agency for Flood Insurance
At the Thumann Agency, we specialize in helping Texans protect their homes and businesses from unexpected disasters like floods. As an independent insurance agency, we can compare rates from multiple carriers to find the best flood insurance for your specific needs. Whether you’re looking for coverage through the NFIP or need higher limits with a private insurer, our team is here to guide you through the process.
Get a Flood Insurance Quote Today
Don’t wait until the next storm hits—ensure your property is covered now.