How to Determine if You Need Flood Insurance in Florida

How to Determine if You Need Flood Insurance in Florida

As you look to insure your home, you want to make sure that you have thought of every type of insurance. This means taking the time to explore whether you need flood insurance in Florida or not. Some areas require it while other areas do not.

Ask Your Neighbors

One of the first things you want to do is ask your neighbors about the likelihood of the area flooding. Particularly if you are new to the neighborhood, your neighbors are going to be the experts here. If they have experienced flooding in the past, particularly to the level where it enters the home, you will want to consider adding flood insurance to your overall coverage in Florida.

Look at Rainfall

Various weather websites can provide you with the amount of rainfall that a particular ZIP Code gets every year. If you notice that a certain month delivers a large amount of rain, it may affect your home in a variety of different ways. Even if the water never enters the home, too much rain can cause problems with the foundation and various other things.

Refer to FEMA Charts

FEMA is responsible for identifying flood zones across the country. A FEMA charts of your area in Vero Beach for the surrounding areas will be available. If you are in an identified flood zone, flood insurance is not suggested, it is required. This means you will have no choice but to obtain a policy in order to be compliant with the law.

These charts can be found online, though insurance companies will also be able to tell you whether you are in a flood zone or not.

Talk with an Insurance Agent

It’s a good idea to talk with an insurance agent about flood insurance in Florida. They will be able to look in the system regarding whether you are in a flood zone and whether the state requires you to have an insurance policy. They will also be able to recommend whether you should obtain flood insurance or not based upon where you live and what some of your neighbors may have experienced.

Even if you are not in a flood zone, it may be advantageous to get the policy, especially if you have poor drainage within your area. If your neighbors have ever had to file a claim, it is a good indication of what can happen around your area. You want to be covered against everything that could happen, and if water causes any kind of damage to your home or your belongings, you will want the opportunity to file a claim.