Does Flood Insurance Cover Detached Structures?
One of the most common topics of conversation regarding Florida insurance is flood insurance. Since flooding is a major threat in Florida, it is important to have all the facts when it comes to protecting your investment. An important consideration is regarding detached structures on the homeowner’s property. Let us take a closer look specifically at whether or not flood insurance covers detached structures like detached garages, shops and guest houses.
Garages
Most homes come standard with some sort of garage. If your home has a detached garage, a portion of your flood insurance building coverage can be used for the garage, but subject to certain conditions. Be sure to speak with an agent regarding this so they are aware that it exists.
Shops
If your property has a detached shop used for business, it is likely you will need a separate flood insurance policy if you want to be property protected against flood damage.
Guest Houses
Like detached structures used for business, detached structures used for residential purposes will require a separate/specific flood coverage in most cases.
As relates to above, here is some relevant language in the National Flood Insurance Program Dwelling Flood Coverage Form:
A detached garage at the described location. Coverage is limited to no more than 10% of the limit of liability on the dwelling. Use of this insurance is at your option but reduces the building limit of liability. We do not cover any detached garage used or held for use for residential (i.e., dwelling), business, or farming purposes.
Other items not covered by flood insurance
We covered this topic, “What is not covered by flood insurance” in another blog post. Be sure to familiarize yourself with that too.
Avoiding flood damage
Besides purchasing flood insurance, there are ways in which you can protect your home from flood damage. Some ways to protect your home from flooding are:
- Confirm drains and ditches around your property are clean and free of debris that can clog them
- Lifting your homes elevation (this is especially relevant to consider with new construction)
- Moving your valuables to higher levels of the home when flood waters threaten it
- Grade your land to slope away from your home
- In some cases, properly venting your garage or enclosures can help minimize/prevent damage
Mitigate your damages
If your home is damaged by flood water it is important to mitigate your damages quickly so that the water doesn’t cause more damage. In general, you should take reasonable and necessary steps to prevent further damage including removing but not disposing of damaged items (until the insurance company has an opportunity to inspect these damaged items). Take photos of video of the damage as soon as it is safe to do so. A reputable water extraction/remediation service can also be utilized to help dry out or take necessary next steps after a flood. Due to demand surge after a major event, there can be a lot of companies offering this type of service. Be sure you have vetted anyone you are considering working with for reputation and always read and ask necessary questions about any document you are asked to sign.
Help protect yourself
You may not be able to completely avoid the risk of flood damage in Florida, but you can protect your investment by purchasing a flood insurance policy. Our agency writes a lot of flood insurance in FL and we can help you find the right policy and coverage. We can review all of your other insurance as well. Call us today for a no-obligation flood insurance quote. Our office is conveniently located in Naples, FL.
The above description provides a brief overview of the terms and phrases used within the insurance industry. These definitions are not applicable in all states or for all insurance and financial products. This is not an insurance contract. Other terms, conditions and exclusions apply. Please read your official policy for full details about coverages. These definitions do not alter or modify the terms of any insurance contract. If there is any conflict between these definitions and the provisions of the applicable insurance policy, the terms of the policy control.
