- Families of campers, counselors who died in Texas Hill County floods sue Camp Mystic
- Small plane bound for Jamaica with hurricane relief supplies crashes in Florida neighborhood
- Ask the Meteorologist: Did a tornado hit Johnston County Saturday night?
- Demolition begins on flood-damaged homes in Stoney Creek as neighbors await relief
- NC Office of State Fire Marshal aiding in Hurricane Melissa relief efforts
Do homeowners' and renters' insurance policies typically cover flood damage?
North Carolina Flood Insurance said most homeowners insurance policies only cover damage caused by threats like fires, windstorms, hail, lightning, and theft.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Areas in Texas are under a major disaster declaration following deadly flooding that killed nearly 90 people over July Fourth weekend.
Meanwhile, North Carolina officials declared an emergency in multiple counties due to the impacts of Tropical Storm Chantal, which led to flooding in the central and eastern parts of the state.
This leaves many people wondering if their insurance plans are sufficient when it comes to flooding. WCNC Charlotte verifies whether flood insurance comes with most coverage plans and who can help if you don’t have it.
THE QUESTION
Do homeowners’ and renters’ insurance policies typically cover flood damage?
THE ANSWER
No, homeowners and renters insurance policies do not typically cover flood damage.
OUR SOURCES
North Carolina Flood Insurance
The Insurance Information Institute
The Federal Emergency Management Agency
Insurance companies
WHAT WE FOUND
Homeowner’s insurance is a way to repair or rebuild from damage or destruction. Homeowner’s insurance, along with renter’s insurance, also helps cover the cost of replacing your belongings.
When you buy a policy, insurance companies will give you a detailed list of what is and isn’t covered.
The major insurance companies WCNC Charlotte checked with say flooding isn’t covered in standard policies, but you can purchase separate flood insurance from a private company or a policy that’s backed by FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program.
North Carolina Flood Insurance said most homeowners’ insurance policies only cover damage caused by threats like fires, windstorms, hail, lightning and theft or vandalism.
Flood Insurance policies usually require you to purchase them at least 30 days before they take effect.
If you didn’t buy coverage ahead of time, FEMA also offers some assistance to people who live in areas that receive a presidential disaster declaration, but it’s typically much less than what flood insurance would cover.
Contact Meghan Bragg at mbragg@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram.