How does National Flood Insurance Program work?

Where it can rain, it can flood. Even if your home is not on the coast flood insurance is available. Policies are available for all NYC residents, including renters and business owners. You are federally required to have flood insurance if: you live in a high-risk flood zone and have a federally-backed mortgage; or you previously received federal disaster assistance for flood damage Flood insurance covers losses directly caused by flooding. There are insurance policies to cover your building and/or belongings. Even though it’s a federal program, you can buy a flood insurance policy through a private insurer. NFIP sets standard flood insurance rates based on your property. Regardless of the insurance agent, you should get the same quote for the same policy. You shouldn’t need to shop around. FEMA determines how much you pay for flood insurance based on several factors , such as the location of the home.

National Flood Insurance Program

How it works

The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) protects your home and belongings in the event of a flood. Traditional homeowners and renters insurance does not cover flood damage. A federal flood insurance policy is the only way to make sure your home is covered.

Where it can rain, it can flood. Even if your home is not on the coast flood insurance is available.
Policies are available for all NYC residents, including renters and business owners.
You are federally required to have flood insurance if:
- you live in a high-risk flood zone and have a federally-backed mortgage; or
- you previously received federal disaster assistance for flood damage
Flood insurance covers losses directly caused by flooding. There are insurance policies to cover your building and/or belongings.
Even though it’s a federal program, you can buy a flood insurance policy through a private insurer.
- NFIP sets standard flood insurance rates based on your property.
- Regardless of the insurance agent, you should get the same quote for the same policy. You shouldn’t need to shop around.
FEMA determines how much you pay for flood insurance based on several factors, such as the location of the home.

Eligibility requirements

Anyone in NYC can buy flood insurance.

How to apply

Ask your insurance agent if they offer flood insurance.

You can also find and contact a flood insurance provider. Ask these 5 questions to make sure you get the best policy for you.

Find a provider

Get help

Learn more online

Visit floodhelpny.org to learn more about flood insurance.

You can also learn more at floodsmart.gov, the official site for NFIP.

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Last Updated October 11, 2024

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