Scared of Floods? Why Standard Home Insurance Isn’t Enough
Imagine waking up to find water rushing through your basement, your furniture floating, and your flooring ruined. Unfortunately, for many homeowners in Maryland, that’s not just a nightmare—it’s a very real possibility during hurricane season, heavy rains, or unexpected flash flooding.
And here’s the kicker: most standard homeowners insurance policies don’t cover flood damage.
If you think your policy protects you from rising water, think again. In this article, we’ll explain what your policy likely excludes, how flood insurance in Maryland works, and how to make sure your home is fully protected before the next storm hits.
Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Floods?
Short answer: No.
A standard homeowners insurance policy typically covers water damage caused by:
- Burst pipes
- Overflowing appliances
- Rain entering after wind damage (like a broken window or roof)
But it does not cover water that enters your home due to rising groundwater, overflowing rivers, storm surges, or flash floods.
Those events are classified as “flooding”—and you’ll need a separate flood insurance policy to be protected.
What Exactly Is a Flood (According to Insurance)?
According to the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), a flood is defined as:
“A general and temporary condition where two or more acres of normally dry land or two or more properties are inundated by water or mudflow.”
This means even localized flash flooding or water runoff from a neighboring property could qualify—and leave you without coverage if you’re relying on your homeowners policy alone.
Why Flood Insurance Matters in Maryland
Maryland may not seem like a flood-prone state at first glance, but its diverse landscape and changing climate tell a different story.
- Coastal communities face rising sea levels and storm surges.
- Inland areas are at risk for flash flooding due to heavy rain and overdevelopment.
- Urban and suburban neighborhoods often deal with poor drainage and runoff issues.
- And yes, even low-risk areas can flood under the right conditions.
In fact, over 25% of flood insurance claims come from areas outside high-risk flood zones. So if your lender doesn’t require flood insurance, that doesn’t mean you’re safe—or off the hook.
What Flood Insurance Covers
A flood insurance policy—whether purchased through the NFIP or a private insurer—can help pay for:
Building Coverage:
- Foundation, walls, and support systems
- Electrical and plumbing systems
- HVAC systems
- Built-in appliances and cabinets
- Detached garages
Contents Coverage:
- Furniture and personal belongings
- Clothing and electronics
- Curtains, rugs, and window A/C units
- Washers, dryers, and freezers
- Valuable items (limited coverage)
Note: Contents coverage must be purchased separately from building coverage under the NFIP. You’ll also need to choose your deductible and policy limits carefully based on your home’s value and possessions.
What’s Not Covered by Flood Insurance?
While flood insurance fills a critical gap, it doesn’t cover everything. Most policies exclude:
- Temporary living expenses (like hotels or meals)
- Landscaping, decks, patios, and pools
- Mold or mildew damage from neglect
- Cars (covered under your auto insurance if you have comprehensive)
How Much Does Flood Insurance Cost?
Flood insurance rates vary based on:
- Location (including flood zone)
- Home elevation and foundation type
- Coverage limits and deductibles
- Age and construction of the home
- Whether your home has a basement
In Maryland, many homeowners in moderate- or low-risk areas find policies starting around $300–$600 per year. High-risk properties or coastal homes may be more expensive—but still far less than the cost of repairing flood damage out of pocket.
What If I’m Not in a High-Risk Flood Zone?
You might not be required to carry flood insurance, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t.
Flood damage can happen anywhere. In fact, it’s one of the most common and costly natural disasters in the U.S. With policies available at affordable rates for low-risk areas, it’s a smart move to protect your home—especially in a changing climate.
Famous & Spang Insurance: Helping Maryland Homeowners Stay Dry
At Famous & Spang Insurance, we work with homeowners across Maryland to identify flood risks and find the right coverage. We’ll help you:
- Understand your current policy
- Determine your property’s flood risk
- Compare NFIP and private market options
- Choose the right coverage limits for your home and belongings
Call us today at 410-272-2300
or
Visit famousspanginsurance.com to request a free flood insurance quote or schedule a policy review.
Because when the water starts to rise, it’s too late to wonder if you’re covered.
