Flood Insurance and Austin Homeowners

I’m moving to Austin. Do I need flood insurance for my new home?

Central Texas has unique topography, sloped terrain, shallow drought ridden clay soil, and rocky limestone ground which make it difficult for rainfall to soak into the land. When intense storms arrive, the water runs off quickly, often overwhelming creeks, lakes, city street drainage systems and can lead to flash floods.

New Texas residents are surprised to learn that homeowner’s insurance does not cover flood damage. Flood insurance must be purchased as a separate policy, often through your local independent insurance agent in connection with the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or one of their other private market insurers. Even if your property is not located in a high-risk flood zone, your home may still be at risk.

Texas’ sudden severe thunderstorms can bring flooding and other potentially damaging wind forces to your home or rental. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) ranks Central Texas as one of the most flash-flood-prone areas in the country. According to FEMA Travis, Williamson and Hays counties have been affected by 359 flood events and Bexar county 215 – since 1996.

 

 

Is Austin in a flood zone?

Floods do not follow maps. For peace of mind and financial protection, flood insurance is one of the smartest decisions for Texas homeowners. Even if your lender does not require it. High-risk “A” zones require flood insurance for federally financed mortgages. Even if not in a high-risk zone, 25% of flood claims come from moderate- to low-risk areas. Even one inch of water inside your home can cost tens of thousands of dollars in repairs. The average payout for a flood insurance claim was $52,000. With the right preparation, you can help to ensure the safety of your home and loved ones, minimize potential property damage, and better recover after a storm. Need help determining your flood zone or exploring flood insurance options for your home or business? I am happy to discuss recent map updates, and tailor coverage to your location and risk profile.

 

Common Myths About Flood Insurance 

• Myth: I do not need flood insurance if I am not near a creek or lake
  Truth: Flash floods can happen anywhere, especially in low-lying neighborhoods, newly developed areas, run off after drought conditions or due to a clogged street gutter
• Myth: FEMA will help me rebuild.
  Truth: FEMA disaster assistance is often limited and must be declared. It is usually a loan, not a grant.
• Myth: My homeowners policy covers water damage.
  Truth: Basic policies cover sudden and accidental water damage (like a burst pipe), but not water from rising flood waters. How is water damage defined on a home owners an insurance policy?

 

Flood Insurance and Austin Homeowners

The Hill Country and Central Texas are part of what meteorologist’s call “Flash Flood Alley”, one of the most flood-prone regions in North America. Flood Insurance is Essential Complementary Home Coverage. Preparation can make a significant difference.

 

Understanding Flood Insurance

Do you know? There is typically a 30-day waiting period for flood insurance, so do not wait until a storm is on the radar. You can take meaningful steps to strengthen your home against floods by crating a disaster preparedness plan visit the National Flood Insurance Program for more information

Storms in Texas can strike with little warning. From torrential rain to high winds, the risk is real. The best defense is preparation both physically and financially. Need help reviewing your policy or getting flood insurance in place before the next storm? Contact Britton & Britton Insurance for a personalized weather-readiness review.

 

Resources:

• NFIP National Flood Insurance Program
• Why are home quotes so different? https://www.brittonandbritton.com/why-are-my-home-insurance-quotes-so-different/
• Does flood insurance cover an engagement ring or jewelry? https://www.brittonandbritton.com/does-insurance-cover-diamond-falling-out-of-engagement-ring/

 

At Britton and Britton Insurance Services, we are committed to helping new homeowners moving to Austin with insurance options, ensuring they have the coverage they requested to confidently face any storm. Contact us for guidance and personalized consultation with an independent insurance agent who understands the unique challenges of insuring homes in flood risk areas of Texas.

Note: Descriptions of insurance products and packages are meant to offer general ideas only, are necessarily brief, and are subject to policy provisions, limits, deductibles, exclusions, and conditions that can only be expressed in the policy itself. In the event of a conflict, the terms and conditions of your policy prevail. This information is provided solely as an insurance risk management tool. It is provided with the understanding that we are not providing advice or any other professional services. We shall have no liability to any person or entity with respect to any loss or damages alleged to have been caused, directly or indirectly, by the use of this information.