Flood Insurance

Some of Florida’s most damaging natural disasters involve flooding, and many homes and businesses are uninsured. Contact Bozeman Insurance today to learn more about your Florida flood insurance options and get a personalized quote.  

Understanding the Importance of Flood Insurance in Florida 

Due to the proximity to water and the frequency of severe storms, flood insurance may be required by your mortgage provider. According to federal laws, property owners with homes or businesses inside a high-risk flood zone must have flood insurance if they have a federally-backed mortgage.  

FEMA’s flood map can help property owners decide whether flood insurance is appropriate. Florida communities may use flood maps to improve infrastructure and plan new developments. Your community’s flood map indicates flood risk, which insurers may use to help determine insurance premiums and requirements. Flood risk is classified as follows: 


• Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA)—These areas face serious flood risks, with a 1% or higher chance of a flood event during any given year. If you own property here, you must purchase flood insurance if you have a loan against the property.  
• Moderate risk flood zone—These areas are often located in areas surrounding SFHAs and have at least a 0.2% annual chance of a serious flood event.  
• Minimal flood hazard—These areas are outside the SFHA at higher elevations and have less than a 0.2% annual chance of a serious flood.  

While flood insurance is not required unless you live in an SFHA, one-third of insurance claims originate in moderate to low-risk flood areas.  

Common Misconceptions about Flood Insurance in Florida and How to Avoid Them 

Flood insurance is not included with standard homeowner’s insurance or business property insurance. Your agent can help you get a policy through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or with a company providing private flood insurance.  

Many people believe that if they are affected by widespread flooding, the federal government will issue a Presidential Disaster Declaration and they will receive assistance, even without flood insurance. However, FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program has historically provided just a few thousand dollars for each home or business in areas receiving a Presidential Disaster Declaration. You may need much more financial support to help rebuild after a flood.  

How to Choose the Right Flood Insurance Policy for your Home or Business in Florida 

You can purchase flood insurance at any time, but policies may take 30 days or more to go into effect. Contact Bozeman Insurance in St. Petersburg, Florida, to learn more about flood insurance and get appropriate coverage for your home or business.