Do Florida Homeowners Really Need Flood Insurance? What Casselberry & Orlando Residents Should Know

Many Florida homeowners assume their homeowners policy covers flood damage.

It doesn’t.

In fact, flood damage is one of the most common — and most misunderstood — coverage gaps in Florida.

Here’s what homeowners in Casselberry, Orlando, and Seminole County need to know.

 

What Is Considered a “Flood”?

Insurance defines flood as:

Water that covers normally dry land and affects two or more properties (or two acres).

Examples:

  • Storm surge

  • Heavy rainfall accumulation

  • Overflowing lakes or retention ponds

  • Rapid neighborhood drainage failure

Even a few inches of water can cause tens of thousands of dollars in damage.

 

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Flood?

No.

Standard homeowners policies cover:

  • Wind damage

  • Fire

  • Theft

  • Certain water damage (like burst pipes)

They do not cover flood from outside water sources.

That requires a separate flood insurance policy.

 

Is Flood Insurance Required in Florida?

It depends.

Flood insurance is required if:

  • You have a federally backed mortgage

  • Your home is in a FEMA-designated high-risk flood zone

But here’s what surprises many homeowners:

More than 25% of flood claims come from moderate-to-low risk zones.

Just because it’s not required doesn’t mean it’s unnecessary.

 

Florida-Specific Risk Factors

Homeowners in Central Florida face:

  • Intense rainstorms

  • Hurricane season flooding

  • Drainage system overload

  • Retention pond overflow

  • New construction altering water flow

Areas around lakes, low-lying neighborhoods, and even newer subdivisions can face unexpected water exposure.

 

How Much Does Flood Insurance Cost?

Costs vary based on:

  • Elevation

  • Flood zone

  • Construction type

  • Coverage amount

Many policies are more affordable than homeowners expect — especially compared to out-of-pocket flood repair costs.

 

What Does Flood Insurance Cover?

  • Structure (foundation, electrical, HVAC)

  • Major appliances

  • Flooring and walls

  • Personal property (with contents coverage)

It does not cover:

  • Temporary housing

  • Cars

  • Outdoor property

 

When Should You Consider Flood Insurance?

You should strongly consider it if:

  • You live near a lake, pond, or retention basin

  • You’ve seen standing water near your property

  • Your neighbors have filed flood claims

  • You want peace of mind during hurricane season

Even homes outside designated flood zones can experience major losses.

 

Why Local Advice Matters

Flood maps change. Development changes drainage patterns. Insurance rules evolve.

Working with a local, relationship-driven agency means:

  • Reviewing your flood zone

  • Understanding elevation certificates

  • Explaining policy limits clearly

  • Avoiding gaps in hurricane season

Flood insurance is one of the most misunderstood coverages in Florida — and one of the most financially impactful if overlooked.

 

Final Thought

The real question isn’t “Is it required?”

It’s: “Can I afford not to have it?”

If you’re unsure whether flood insurance makes sense for your home, it’s worth a review — before the next storm forms offshore.