Flood insurance FAQ

How do I know if my home insurance covers flood damage?

• Contact your home insurance agent. Most home insurance policies do not cover flood damage. Flood insurance is available separately through the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA’s) National Floodplain Insurance Program (NFIP) or through some limited private policies. It is not necessary to be in a mapped flood zone to have flood insurance.

What does FEMA flood insurance cover?

• The standard NFIP policy for residential covers $250,000 for structures and $100,000 for contents. For non-residential, the coverage is $500,000 for the structure and $500,000 for contents. Renters may have contents-only coverage.
• FEMA flood insurance does not cover impacts that don’t involve structures, for example impacts to riverbanks or yards.
• FEMA flood insurance does not cover flood clean-up costs such as debris removal.

How do I start a flood insurance claim?

• Before removing flood damaged items from your home, take these steps:
  • Take photos and videos
  • Record serial numbers
  • Keep receipts
• Report your loss immediately to your insurance agent. Be sure to ask them about advance payments. Need help finding your insurance agent or carrier? Contact the NFIP at 877-336-2627.

Who can I contact for help?

• First, contact your insurance agent to check your coverage.
• If you have federal flood insurance, here is a helpful guide: Starting Your Recovery After a Flood | FEMA.gov
• Still stuck? Contact Teri Rehfeldt, Senior Planner, Floodplain Administrator at 907-586-0753 extension 4129 or [email protected]

CBJ will notify residents as disaster assistance resources become available.