Guide · Updated:
Flood risk and insurance
In Florida the seller must tell you in writing about known flooding or flood claims, homeowners insurance does not cover floods and a federal policy usually starts 30 days after you buy it.
Sources: Florida Statutes, s. 689.302 · FEMA, National Flood Insurance Program · checked Sep 30, 2026
Ask for a shortlist and documentsYour message includes this guide topic.What must the seller disclose?
Whether they know of flooding that damaged the property, whether they filed a flood claim and whether they got federal aid for it.
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Section 689.302 requires the seller of residential property to complete and provide a flood disclosure at or before the time the contract is signed. The form asks three things: whether they know of flooding that damaged the property during their ownership, whether they filed a flood damage claim with an insurer, including the federal program, and whether they received flood damage assistance, for example from FEMA. The law was passed in 2024 (chapter 2024-215).
Source: Florida Statutes, s. 689.302 · checked Sep 30, 2026
Does homeowners insurance cover floods?
No. The disclosure the law requires says so itself: homeowners policies do not cover flood damage.
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The mandatory text of section 689.302 opens this way: homeowners' insurance policies do not include coverage for flood damage, and the buyer is encouraged to discuss separate flood coverage with their insurance agent. In a condo, the building also carries its own policy for common areas; what you insure yourself depends on the declaration. Ask for the building's policy along with the budget.
Source: Florida Statutes, s. 689.302 · checked Sep 30, 2026
When does a flood policy start covering?
A federal policy usually takes 30 days from purchase, with exceptions, for example when the lender requires it at closing.
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FEMA explains there is typically a 30-day waiting period from purchase before a National Flood Insurance Program policy takes effect, and points to a list of exceptions. One is when a lender requires it for the loan: then it can start at closing. If you buy cash during hurricane season, don't leave the policy for closing day.
Source: FEMA, National Flood Insurance Program · checked Sep 30, 2026
This summarises what the law says and what the cited sources publish; it is not legal or tax advice. Before you decide, confirm it with a Florida-licensed attorney or CPA.
Written by Carolina Suárez Rivas, Florida-licensed real estate agent (SL3336060).