Protect Your Home from Flooding Even Outside Flood Zones

Living outside of a designated flood zone doesn’t mean you’re immune to flooding. Flooding can occur anywhere, and the effects can be devastating. Many homeowners make the mistake of assuming that their homeowner’s insurance covers flood damage, but that isn’t the case. Only a flood insurance policy can offer the protection you need.

Real-Life Claims: Why Flood Insurance Matters

1. Old Irving Park, Chicago: One long-time customer experienced his first flood after a July 2023 storm, one of the costliest in Chicago’s history. His home, passed down through generations, never had water damage before. However, the storm led to significant flooding in the basement, damaging personal possessions, electronics, and furniture. While his homeowner’s insurance covered tree damage from the storm, the flooding was not covered—leaving him to pay out of pocket. A second flood struck before the repairs were even complete, and again, there was no coverage for the flood damage.
2. Portage Park, Chicago: In 2024, a couple who had purchased a beautiful brick home in 2022 contacted me. Their current insurer had canceled their policy after three water damage claims in two years, and they were struggling to find affordable coverage. Two of their three claims hadn’t been paid out, and they were facing an annual premium increase of $1300. They hadn’t realized that for just $260 per year, they could have purchased a flood policy that would cover both their home and personal contents, protecting them from further financial loss.
   
   

These neighborhoods, like many across Chicago, were not considered high-risk flood zones. However, Cook County experienced two federally declared flood disasters in 2023 alone, impacting thousands of homeowners like those mentioned above. Most homeowners affected had to wait for federal assistance—if it came at all. Federal disaster assistance only becomes available with a Presidential disaster declaration, which doesn’t happen after most flood events. Even when available, aid often comes as loans that must be repaid.

Common Questions:

How do I find affordable flood insurance? Get a Quote you can shop for flood insurance as you did for your home. Flood insurance offers peace of mind. You’ll know that your home, personal belongings, and any additional living expenses are covered without waiting for disaster declarations or face loan repayments.

What is the advantage other than the cost of choosing a private flood insurance company? A private flood policy won’t lead to the cancellation or non-renewal of your homeowner’s insurance due to water damage claims.

Can I shop for insurance if I am in a mandatory flood zone? yes! Even in high-risk flood zones private carriers will offer policies. 

If you would like to learn more learn how flood insurance can safeguard your home and ensure your peace of mind Click here to set up a time to review your options. 

Katherine Tapiero
Insurance Agent
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Comparion Insurance Agency

A Liberty Mutual Company
1 N. Franklin St. Ste 1700

Chicago, IL 60606
Office 312-596-1073

Mobile 312-497-0927

Content provided by Women Belong member  Katherine Tapiero