Texas Flood Insurance

Find the Best Flood Insurance Rates and Companies in Texas

Flooding is a serious problem in Texas. Many parts of this state are vulnerable to heavy rains and storm surges when hurricanes and tropical storms move through the Gulf. If you own property in Texas, you may want to give serious consideration to protecting it with flood insurance, especially considering homeowners insurance and business insurance won't cover natural flood damage. 

Fortunately, a local independent insurance agent in Texas knows exactly where to find the right flood insurance. They'll help you get set up with all the coverage you need for your property, whether it's residential or commercial. But first, learn more with our guide to Texas flood insurance. 

Key Takeaways - Texas Flood Insurance

• Texas flood insurance can pay for natural flood damage, such as that caused by heavy rainfall and overflowing rivers, to a building's contents, structure, and foundation.
• The average cost of flood insurance in Texas is $879 per year, or approximately $73 per month.
• Texas flood insurance rates are slightly less expensive than the current national average of $899 per year, or approximately $75 per month.
• You're often required to have flood insurance in Texas if your property is located in a high-risk flood area or you have a mortgage.
• Working with a local independent insurance agent is strongly recommended, as they can tailor a policy to your unique property and coverage needs.

The Best Flood Insurance Companies in Texas

You can buy flood insurance from private carriers in Texas. These are our top picks for the best Texas flood insurance companies this year. 

• REInsure Pro: This insurance company sells flood insurance, along with many other personal insurance products. REInsure Pro works with independent insurance agents and offers fast claims responses.
• Progressive: This insurance company sells flood insurance, along with many additional personal and business insurance products. Progressive has an excellent financial strength rating from AM Best, offers many discounts, and provides 24/7/365 customer service.

A local independent insurance agent can help you compare Texas flood insurance policy options and rates, including Katy, Texas, flood insurance quotes.

How to buy flood insurance in Texas

Texas flood insurance is sold by FEMA's National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and many private insurance companies located throughout the state. It might be easiest to work with a local independent insurance agent to find the right policy for your unique property. These agents have access to several flood insurance carriers, so they can shop and compare Texas flood insurance policies to find you the best deal.

Is Flood Insurance Required in Texas?

Sometimes. Flood insurance is not required by law. However, if you're still paying on a mortgage and your property is located in a FEMA-designated flood zone, your lender will most likely require you to carry flood insurance until your loan is paid in full. For properties owned outright or with a low risk of flood damage, this insurance is optional. Despite Texas flood insurance requirements, you still might want to consider getting coverage, though, since having flood insurance can help you avoid potentially catastrophic losses after natural flood disasters. 

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What Does Flood Insurance Cover in Texas?

Flood insurance consists of two parts: structural and contents coverage. If you buy a policy through the NFIP, coverage limits tend to be stricter than those from private insurers. Coverage breaks down as follows:

• Buildings coverage: This pays to repair damage to the structure of your property. It includes coverage for items such as the building's foundation, plumbing and electrical systems, water heaters, and HVAC systems.
  • Homeowners may purchase up to $250,000 in dwelling coverage from the NFIP.
  • Businesses may purchase up to $500,000 in dwelling coverage from the NFIP.
• Contents coverage: For homeowners, this coverage can apply to personal belongings such as furniture, electronics, and clothing. For businesses, it can cover merchandise, inventory, computers, and other business-owned property.
  • Homeowners may purchase up to $100,000 in contents coverage from the NFIP.
  • Businesses may purchase up to $500,000 in contents coverage from the NFIP.

You can choose to purchase just one or both types of coverage, depending on your situation. For example, if you rent your home or business space, you only need contents coverage since your landlord is responsible for covering damage to the building's structure.

What's Not Covered by Flood Insurance in Texas?

Flood insurance in Texas won't cover flood damage to your home that's caused by sewer backups and line breaks. However, you can add a sewer backup endorsement to your home insurance policy. Additionally, don't expect your flood insurance policy to cover the following risks:

• Personal property kept in a finished basement
• Damage caused by earth movement
• Mold, mildew, or moisture remediation
• Landscaping features
• Property kept outside your home, such as decks, hot tubs, and swimming pools
• Currency, precious metals, and important papers
• Additional living expenses for homeowners
• Business interruptions
• Damage to your vehicle

Your independent insurance agent can help you review the specific coverage exclusions and limitations of your flood insurance policy.

How Much Does Flood Insurance Cost in Texas?

Texas flood insurance costs an average of $879 per year, or approximately $73 per month. So, how much is Texas flood insurance compared to the country as a whole? The current national average flood insurance rate is $899 per year, or approximately $75 per month, meaning property owners in Texas pay just a bit less than the average. 

Local flood insurance rates are set by FEMA and the NFIP using the Texas Flood Insurance Rate Map. Texas flood insurance rates can also be affected by these factors:

• The value of your home’s contents 
• The type of coverage you purchased
• Whether or not your home has a basement
• The deductible and amount of coverage you need
• Your home's flood zone designation
• The location, design, building materials, and age of your home

Your independent insurance agent can help you find the most affordable coverage, including flood insurance in Houston, Texas.

Texas Flood Zones

To find your accurate Texas flood risk assessment, visit FEMA's official website. These comprehensive and user-friendly documents are also available for residents and property owners:

• Texas flood zone maps
• Dallas, Texas flood maps
• Texas flood zone map PDFS
• Texas flood plain maps

Texas flood zone designations can also affect the cost of flood insurance. Wherever you're located, an independent insurance agent can help you find cheap flood insurance in Texas. 

Texas cities with the highest flood risk

Properties located along the coast or near rivers and lakes are at a higher risk of flood damage. Additionally, properties in the following cities may be more susceptible to flood damage: 

1. Port Arthur
2. Galveston
3. Bolivar Peninsula

It's possible that flood insurance is actually required for properties located in these Texas cities. An independent insurance agent can help you get any required flood coverage for your area. 

The Best Flood Insurance Discounts in Texas

Texas flood insurance discounts are available from the following coverage providers:

• Private flood insurance companies in Texas: Depending on the carrier, various flood insurance discounts may be available, such as those for properties with flood-proofing measures or for individuals affiliated with certain organizations. 
• FEMA and the NFIP: Flood insurance discounts are sometimes offered for newly mapped properties and for those in communities that participate in the Community Rating System. Discounts range from 5% to 45% and are determined by a property's classification.

An independent insurance agent in Texas can help you find all the flood insurance discounts you qualify for. 

How to Apply for Flood Insurance in Texas

You have three main choices when shopping for flood insurance in Texas:

1. FEMA's National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)
2. Private flood insurance companies in Texas
3. Local independent insurance agents in Texas

Option three can provide you with the fastest, most efficient results. Local Texas independent insurance agents know where to find the best flood insurance coverage at a great rate. 

How to File a Flood Insurance Claim in Texas

Immediately after a flood disaster, you'll want to report the incident to your flood insurance carrier or Texas independent insurance agent. Next, take the following steps:

1. Gather evidence: Wait for officials to declare your property is safe for reentry after the flood. Next, prepare photo and video evidence, along with a detailed written report of all property damage for your carrier. 
2. Work with your claims adjuster: Your flood insurance company will schedule a home inspection visit from a claims adjuster to assess the damage. Your adjuster might be able to offer you a claim payout estimate during their assessment. 
3. Receive your payout: Finally, you'll be issued your claim payout in either a direct deposit or a check sent in the mail. The amount you receive depends on your coverage terms and the extent of the damage. 

Your Texas independent insurance agent can file a claim for you directly through your carrier. They'll also keep you updated during the entire claims process. 

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With Diamondback Insurance, you can compare real-time quotes, choose the right coverage, and purchase your policy — all online in just minutes.

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FAQs About Texas Flood Insurance