Does homeowner's insurance cover flooding?

No. Standard homeowner's insurance policies do not cover flood damage. Flood insurance is available through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and some private insurers. NFIP policies have a 30-day waiting period before coverage begins, so purchase before flood season.

How much water does it take to be dangerous in a flood?

Six inches of moving water can knock an adult off their feet. Twelve inches of moving water can carry a small car. Two feet of moving water can float most vehicles, including SUVs and trucks. The National Weather Service advises: Turn Around, Don't Drown.

Is tap water safe to drink after a flood?

Do not assume tap water is safe after a flood. Floodwater can contaminate wells and damage water treatment systems. Use only stored or bottled water until your local water utility or health department confirms the water supply is safe. The CDC advises against boiling water that may contain chemical contamination.

How quickly does mold grow after flooding?

Mold can begin growing on wet surfaces within 24 to 48 hours. FEMA recommends beginning the drying process immediately after floodwaters recede. Remove standing water, increase ventilation, and remove wet materials like carpet, insulation, and drywall that cannot be dried within 48 hours.

What is the difference between a flood watch and a flood warning?

A flood watch means flooding is possible in your area. A flood warning means flooding is occurring or is imminent. A flash flood warning means a flash flood is happening or about to happen and you should move to higher ground immediately. Flash floods can arrive within minutes.

Flood Preparedness Checklist — Before, During & After a Flood

Phase 1

Before a flood. Know your risk. Get covered.

Flooding is the most common natural disaster in the United States. It happens in every state and can occur outside mapped flood zones.

Know Your Risk

Check your FEMA flood zone at msc.fema.gov
Learn whether your area is prone to flash flooding, river flooding, or coastal storm surge
Identify the lowest point in your home and know what is stored there
Sign up for local flood alerts and NOAA weather warnings

Insurance and Documents

Buy flood insurance now — standard homeowner's policies do not cover flooding
NFIP policies have a 30-day waiting period — do not wait until a storm is forecast
Store copies of IDs, policies, and medical records in a waterproof container above ground floor
Create a video walkthrough of your home and belongings for claim documentation

Home Protection

Clear gutters, drains, and downspouts — ensure water flows away from the foundation
Test your sump pump and consider a battery backup sump pump
Elevate appliances, electrical panels, and HVAC systems above anticipated flood level
Store sandbags, plastic sheeting, and a utility pump if you are in a recurrent flood area

Supplies

Store 1 gallon of drinking water per person per day for at least 3 days, above the ground floor
Stock 3 to 7 days of shelf-stable food that requires no cooking or refrigeration
Keep cash in small bills — power outages disable ATMs and card readers
Charge all devices and have a battery-powered or hand-crank NOAA weather radio

Phase 2

During a flood. Turn around. Do not drown.

More flood deaths occur in vehicles than anywhere else. If you encounter flooded roads, turn around. It is never worth the risk.

If You Are at Home

If ordered to evacuate, go immediately — do not wait for water to rise
If you shelter in place, move to the highest floor — never enter an attic without roof access
Shut off electricity at the breaker panel if water is approaching electrical outlets
Do not walk through floodwater — it may hide sharp debris, open manholes, or downed wires

If You Are Driving

Turn around. Do not drive through flooded roads. You cannot judge the depth from inside a car
12 inches of moving water can carry a small car — 2 feet can float most vehicles
If your vehicle stalls in rising water, abandon it immediately and move to higher ground
Avoid bridges over fast-moving water — they may be structurally weakened

Phase 3

After a flood. The clock is ticking on mold.

Mold can begin growing on wet surfaces within 24 to 48 hours. The sooner you begin drying, the more of your home you can save.

Immediate Safety

Do not enter your home until authorities confirm it is structurally safe
Do not drink tap water until your water utility confirms it is safe
If you smell gas or see sparks, leave immediately and call your utility from outside
Wear rubber boots, gloves, and an N95 mask during all cleanup — floodwater carries sewage and chemicals

Documentation and Drying

Photograph all damage before moving or discarding anything for your insurance claim
Contact your insurance company to open a claim promptly
Remove standing water and begin drying within 24 to 48 hours to prevent mold
Remove and discard wet carpet, insulation, and drywall below the flood line
Register with FEMA for disaster assistance if your area receives a federal declaration

Gear

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Flood Preparedness Checklist. Before, during, and after.