What "flood" means
Flood insurance covers rising water, storm surge, and surface-water overflow. It does NOT cover wind-driven rain that enters through a storm-damaged opening (that's your homeowners policy).
Where required
FEMA-designated Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs) typically require flood coverage if you have a federally-backed mortgage.
The 30-day wait
NFIP policies typically take 30 days to bind. You cannot buy flood coverage when a storm is already approaching.
When it matters most
- Coastal and low-elevation properties
- Storm-surge exposure zones
- Properties with history of ground-water intrusion