If you’ve been keeping an eye on the weather lately, you know that Miami-Dade and much of Florida have been dealing with some unexpected and severe flooding. What’s really surprising is that many of these floods have hit homes outside of designated flood zones. So, let’s discuss into why it’s crucial to think about getting flood insurance, even if your property isn’t technically in a flood zone.
Not in a Flood Zone? You’re Still at Risk
You might assume that if your home isn’t in a flood zone, you’re safe from flooding—but that’s not necessarily the case.Flood zones are based on old maps that don’t always reflect today’s reality.
With climate change, new developments, and unpredictable weather patterns, flooding can happen anywhere.
Take the Lakewood Ranch community in Sarasota, for example. Their homes, which aren’t anywhere near a water source, got flooded during recent rainstorms. Out of all the affected homes, only two had flood insurance. Many homeowners said their real estte agent told them they weren’t in a flood zone, so they didn’t think they needed it. That’s why I always advise my clients to consider flood insurance, no matter where their home is located.
Even areas like Kendall, a suburb in south Miami-Dade can experience flooding during heavy rains, particularly in low-lying spots or places with poor drainage. While it may not be as flood-prone as other parts of Miami, Kendall is still at risk of localized flooding during intense rainstorms, especially when the drainage systems get overwhelmed. This is why flood insurance is important, even in areas where flooding isn’t a daily concern but can still happen under the right conditions.
What Does Flood Insurance Actually Cover?
I’m not a property and casualty insurance expert, but with my many years in real estate, I’ve learned a lot about the importance of flood insurance from trusted insurance pros.
Early in my career, I realized that flood insurance isn’t just a backup plan—it’s peace of mind. Unlike regular homeowners insurance, flood insurance covers damage from rising water caused by heavy rains, storm surges, or overflowing rivers. But here’s the thing: if your pipes burst and flood your home, that’s something your homeowners insurance would cover, not flood insurance. Flood insurance is specifically for protection from external water sources, so it’s crucial to understand what your policy covers.
Why You Shouldn’t Skip Flood Insurance
Even if your lender doesn’t require flood insurance, it’s a smart investment. The cost of flood insurance is often much lower than the potential out-of-pocket expenses for flood damage repairs. Plus, it ensures that you’re not left high and dry if an unexpected flood hits your home. In a city like Miami, where heavy rains and tropical storms are part of life, having flood insurance is a no-brainer.
Take Action Before It’s Too Late
Flooding can happen anywhere, and recent events have proven that even homes far from water sources are at risk. Don’t let the fact that you’re not in a flood zone give you a false sense of security. Protect your home, your investment, and your peace of mind with flood insurance.
And if you’re looking to make a move—whether it’s buying or selling—now might be a good time to start planning. As always, if you need advice or just want to chat about the market, give us a call. We’re here to help. We’ve got our fingers on the pulse of Miami’s real estate scene, and we’re ready to help you make the best decisions for your future.