Standard homeowners policies generally exclude flooding, so owners often need separate flood insurance or a provider endorsement to protect homes and belongings.
Covered flooding can stem from blocked drainage, storm surges, dam failures, heavy rain, flash floods, melting snow, and tropical storms, depending on policy terms.
Policies typically split protection between dwelling coverage for structures and personal property coverage for items like clothing, electronics, furniture, and portable appliances.
Key exclusions include preventable mold, moisture, cash, precious metals, landscaping, pools, decks, vehicles, business interruption, plus flood-triggered landslides or mudslides remain excluded.
Most standard policies begin after a 30-day waiting period; renters can buy contents coverage, and disaster grants do not replace standard flood insurance.
