Personal Insurance

Flood Insurance

Homeowners insurance does not cover flood. We help Lowcountry homeowners compare NFIP and private flood policies — before the typical waiting period applies.

Looking for Flood Insurance in South Carolina?

When most people think of a flood, they might think of events like Hurricane Katrina, or Hurricane Sandy. These were huge devastating storms that caused billions of dollars in damage.

In reality, most floods are caused by far less catastrophic situations. In fact, it only takes a few inches of standing water to cause tens of thousands of dollars.

If you’re looking for flood insurance in Bluffton we’ve got you covered. Did you know that every single house in the entire country is in a FEMA flood zone? It’s just that some flood zones are worse than others.

In most situations, you will have a 30 day waiting period when you buy flood insurance, so don’t wait until it’s too late!

Homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage

Regardless of whether you live in Bluffton or any other part of South Carolina, flood insurance has to be purchased as a separate, stand-alone policy.

It is not covered by homeowners insurance.

Flood insurance policies also reimburse you for the work that you and other family members did to sandbag your homes, move furniture and remove debris.

If you live in certain flood zones, your mortgage company may require that you purchase a flood insurance policy.

If you live outside a high-risk zone, or if you no longer have a mortgage, flood insurance is optional.

How to get started on your Flood Insurance quote

To get started on your quote, call our office or click over to our quotes page. Either way we’ll make the process simple!

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Frequently asked questions

Does homeowners insurance cover flood damage?
No. Anywhere in South Carolina, flood coverage from rising water must be purchased as a separate policy — it cannot be added to a homeowners policy. In the Lowcountry that distinction matters a great deal, which is why we usually pair the two.
Is there a waiting period for flood insurance?
Usually yes. A new NFIP flood policy typically takes effect 30 days after purchase, so you cannot wait until a storm is in the forecast. Some private flood policies and certain loan-related purchases have different timing, but the safe move is to put coverage in place well ahead of hurricane season.
Do I need flood insurance if I'm not in a high-risk zone?
Every property sits in a FEMA flood zone — some simply carry more risk than others. If you are in a high-risk zone with a mortgage, your lender will likely require it. Outside high-risk zones it is optional, but a large share of flood claims come from lower-risk areas, and a few inches of water can cause tens of thousands of dollars in damage.
What's the difference between NFIP and private flood insurance?
NFIP is the federal National Flood Insurance Program, with standardized coverage and limits. Private flood carriers can sometimes offer higher limits, broader coverage, or different pricing. We compare both so you can see which fits your home and budget.
What does a flood policy cover — and not cover?
Flood policies generally separate Building coverage (the structure and built-in systems) from Contents coverage (your belongings), and you typically choose both. Coverage limits, basement and below-grade rules, and items like temporary living expenses vary by program, so it is worth reviewing the specifics before you buy.

Ready to talk it through?

Tell us a little about what you need and one of our agents will reach out. We'll shop your coverage and come back with real options.