Massachusetts Flood Insurance: Complete Guide for Homeowners

From the incredible summers and active sports culture to world-famous seafood, there’s a lot to love about Massachusetts. But homeowners in the Bay State must be aware of and plan for flooding.

One of the most common natural disasters in the U.S. is flooding, and Massachusetts is no exception. Massachusetts flood insurance can protect you and your family against flood damage.

Massachusetts Flood Insurance: What Homeowners Need to Know

Here’s why that’s important: standard homeowners policies don’t cover damage from floodwater. Don’t be caught off guard when disaster strikes. Here’s what you need to know about flood insurance in this New England state.

Flood insurance doesn’t replace homeowners insurance policies. To get the right amount of coverage for your home, use Insurify to compare rates from a dozen or more homeowners insurance companies to see how much you could save.

When You Need Massachusetts Flood Insurance

As a homeowner, you probably have homeowners insurance to protect your house and property. But that isn’t always enough. If floodwaters rise, Massachusetts flood insurance can protect you financially from a loss.

But is flood insurance required? Like most things in life, it depends on your situation.

State law doesn’t require you purchase flood insurance. However, you may need to purchase a flood insurance policy if you live in a specific flood zone. Many lenders require it as part of the home loan approval process if the house is in a high-risk area.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency ( FEMA ) determines flood zones. Visit FEMA ’s Flood Insurance Rate Maps to locate flood map information about your neighborhood.

Some Massachusetts communities have more restrictive requirements for flood insurance. If you’re unsure, check with your local municipality for more information.

What Does Massachusetts Flood Insurance Cover?

Because standard Massachusetts homeowners insurance doesn’t cover flood damage, you may want to purchase a policy even if flood insurance isn’t required. Here’s why: FEMA reports that nearly a quarter of flood claims are outside of high-risk areas.

No matter where you live in Massachusetts, flood damage could impact you. It’s best to understand what’s covered—and what’s not—before disaster strikes.

Your flood insurance coverage can vary from one policy to the next. It can also depend on whether you purchase a National Flood Insurance Program ( NFIP ) policy or a private flood insurance policy.

Generally, policies are broken into two components: home and building coverage and personal property coverage.

Home and building coverage includes:

• Home systems, such as electrical and plumbing

• Furnaces and water heaters

• Built-in appliances, like refrigerators and ranges

• Carpeting and window blinds

• Cabinets and bookcases

• Foundation and structure, including detached garages

Personal contents coverage includes:

• Furniture and electronics

• Window treatments and curtains

• Washers, dryers, and window air conditioners

• Clothing and other personal belongings

What’s Not Covered by Flood Insurance

Based on the long list of what flood insurance includes, you might think everything is covered. But policyholders should be aware that flood insurance does not cover:

• Swimming pools, fences, decks, and other property outside your home

• Cars, trucks, and most self-propelled vehicles

• Currency, precious metals, and stock certificates

• Personal items kept in the basement

Cost of Flood Insurance in Massachusetts

According to the Massachusetts Division of Insurance (DOI), the average cost of flood insurance is $550 per year. That’s for a policy purchased through the NFIP.

However, how much you pay depends on whether your home is in a FEMA -designated high-risk floodplain. The DOI reports homeowners in lower- risk areas can pay premiums as low as $119 per year. But you could also pay significantly higher premiums than the state’s average if you’re located in a high-risk area.

Where to Buy a Flood Insurance Policy in Massachusetts

Flood insurance policies are available to renters, homeowners, business owners, and commercial property owners in Massachusetts. So, where can you find flood insurance?

Typically, the same person who sells your home or auto insurance will also sell flood insurance. You can choose from roughly 85 insurance companies in more than 20,800 communities throughout the state.

If you don’t have a local insurance agent, consider these Massachusetts flood insurance companies to get a quote:

• Allstate Insurance Company

• Farm Family Casualty

• Liberty Mutual

• National General Insurance

• Privilege Underwriters

You can find more information and view all flood insurance providers in Massachusetts at Floodsmart. gov.

Frequently Asked Questions - Massachusetts Earthquake Insurance

The Bottom Line: Massachusetts Flood Insurance

Standard homeowners and renters insurance doesn’t cover water damage from flooding. Because floods can happen outside of high-risk areas, consider purchasing flood insurance to protect your home and belongings.

Massachusetts flood insurance policies are available from the NFIP and through private insurers. Before you commit to a company, make sure you understand what’s covered and the policy limits that may be in place.