Many homeowners assume that if they’re not living in a designated flood zone, their standard home insurance through York Jersey Underwriters, Inc., serving Tinton Falls, NJ, and surrounding communities, will cover any water damage from flooding. Unfortunately, that’s rarely the case. In most situations, a typical homeowners policy does not cover damage from floods—whether you’re in a high-risk zone or not.
Why Location Doesn’t Guarantee Coverage
Home insurance generally covers sudden, accidental water issues inside your home, such as burst pipes. However, outside water—such as rain, storm surge, or rising rivers that enter your house from the ground up—falls under the category of flooding. This means you’d need a separate flood insurance policy to be protected.
It doesn’t matter if you live near a river or miles away from one. Flooding can occur due to heavy rains, rapid snowmelt, or even blocked storm drains. In fact, many flood claims come from areas considered low or moderate risk. Because these areas aren’t officially mapped as high-risk zones, residents often skip flood insurance, only to face financial strain when unexpected flooding occurs.
The Smarter Move: Know Your Options
Even if your mortgage doesn’t require it, carrying a flood insurance policy can be a smart safeguard. It helps cover the cost of repairs to your structure and may also compensate for personal belongings lost to floodwaters. In a state like New Jersey, where the weather can change quickly, it’s worth speaking with an agent to understand your actual risk.
If you’re interested in adding flood protection or want to know how your home is classified, reach out to York Jersey Underwriters, Inc., serving Tinton Falls, NJ. We’ll help you explore your options so you can feel confident your home is covered—no matter what the forecast brings.
