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Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Flood Damage?

Last updated October 25, 2026

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The short answer

What Standard Policies Exclude

Most standard homeowners insurance policies cover water damage from sudden, internal sources like a burst pipe or an overflowing bathtub. They do not cover flooding that comes from outside your home, such as rising water from a creek, lake, or heavy rainfall that soaks the ground.

Flood damage is usually defined as water that covers normally dry land. If that water enters your home through windows, doors, or cracks in the foundation, your standard policy likely will not pay for repairs. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.

When Flood Coverage Applies

Flood coverage is available as a separate policy, often through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or a private insurer. This type of policy can help pay for structural repairs and damage to your belongings if rising water enters your home.

You can buy flood insurance even if your home is not in a high-risk flood zone. In fact, about 20 percent of flood insurance claims come from areas with moderate to low flood risk. If you live in Mesquite, consider whether your property sits near any drainage or flood-prone areas.

Flood insurance typically has a 30-day waiting period before it takes effect, so you cannot buy it right before a storm hits. Plan ahead if you think you might need this protection.

  • Check your policy declarations page to see if flood is listed as an exclusion.
  • Ask your insurance company about separate flood coverage options.
  • Review your home's flood risk using FEMA flood maps.
  • Document your belongings with photos or a home inventory list.
  • Keep your policy documents in a safe, water-resistant place.

What to Do After Flood Damage

If floodwater enters your home, act quickly to protect your health and property. Turn off the electricity at the main breaker if it is safe to do so, and avoid standing water that may be contaminated with sewage or chemicals. Wear protective gear like rubber boots and gloves.

Take photos of the damage before you move anything. Your insurance company will need evidence to process a claim. Do not throw away damaged items until an adjuster or your insurer tells you it is okay.

Contact your insurance company right away to file a claim. They will explain what is covered and what steps you need to take next.

  • Shut off gas and electricity if safe.
  • Remove standing water with a pump or wet vacuum.
  • Dry out the area within 24 to 48 hours to reduce mold risk.
  • Keep a list of all damaged items and their approximate value.
  • Do not enter a room with sagging ceilings or structural damage.

Dealing with Mold After a Flood

Floodwater can leave behind mold that starts growing within 24 to 48 hours. Mold can cause respiratory issues and other health problems, so you should avoid breathing in spores. If you see or smell mold, consider hiring a mold professional to assess the situation.

A mold professional can test the air quality and recommend safe removal methods. Some mold can be cleaned with soap and water, but porous materials like drywall and insulation may need to be removed and replaced. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaners.

If you feel unwell from mold exposure, see a doctor. Keep the area well-ventilated and use a mask that filters out particles while cleaning.

Working with Water Damage Pros

After a flood, you may need professional help to dry out your home and prevent further damage. Local water damage pros can extract water, set up industrial dehumidifiers, and remove damaged materials. They can also help identify hidden moisture in walls and floors.

The pros do not submit your insurance claim for you, but they can provide detailed documentation of the damage that you can share with your insurer. Ask them for a written report and photos. You can also request a water damage inspection to assess the full extent of the damage before repairs begin.

If you live in Mesquite, keep the contact information for a trusted water damage restoration service in your phone or on your fridge. That way you are ready if a flood ever affects your home.

  • Ask for a written scope of work and timeline.
  • Get multiple opinions if you are unsure about the extent of damage.
  • Check that the pros use moisture meters and thermal imaging.
  • Discuss drying techniques and how they will protect your belongings.
  • Confirm they will handle disposal of damaged materials properly.

Water damage does not wait

Every hour counts once water gets into floors and walls. One call starts the response.

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Frequently asked questions

Does flood insurance cover damage from a sewer backup?

Usually no. Sewer backup is a separate type of coverage that you can often add to your homeowners policy as an endorsement. Check your policy or ask your insurer about adding sewer backup coverage if it is not already included.

Can I file a claim for flood damage if I do not have flood insurance?

You can file a claim, but your standard homeowners policy will likely deny it because flood is excluded. Some disaster assistance programs may provide grants or low-interest loans, but those are not certain. Check with FEMA and your state's emergency management office.

How long does it take to get flood insurance?

Flood insurance through the NFIP typically has a 30-day waiting period before coverage begins. Private insurers may have different rules, but you should not wait until a storm is approaching. Buy flood insurance well before you need it.

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