Massachusetts Flood Insurance
Flood Insurance in Massachusetts
Flooding can happen anywhere in Massachusetts — not just along the coast. Heavy rain, melting snow, and drainage issues can cause serious damage, even in areas that have never flooded before. A dedicated flood insurance policy helps protect your home or business from the high cost of repairing or replacing what’s damaged after a flood.
Why Flood Insurance Is Important
Most homeowners and business insurance policies do not cover flood damage. Without separate flood coverage, cleanup and rebuilding costs can be overwhelming. Even one inch of floodwater can cause roughly $25,000 in damage to a home and its contents, according to FEMA.
Flood insurance can help pay for:
- The structure of your home or building, including foundation and systems
- Electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems
- Built-in cabinetry, appliances, and flooring
- Personal property such as furniture and clothing (depending on coverage)
Coverage doesn’t start immediately. Most NFIP policies include a 30-day waiting period before they take effect, although this can sometimes be waived — for example, when coverage is purchased in connection with a new mortgage or property closing. Some private flood carriers also offer shorter or waived waiting periods based on eligibility. Your Risman agent can explain what applies to your situation.
NFIP vs. Private Flood Insurance
Risman Insurance offers both National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and private flood insurance options for Massachusetts homeowners and businesses.
- NFIP Coverage: Backed by FEMA with standardized rates and limits.
- Private Flood Coverage: Offered by independent carriers with flexible limits and broader coverage options.
Learn more about how these options compare in our blog:
Navigating Flood Insurance in Massachusetts: NFIP vs. Private Flood Insurance
Understanding Flood Zones in Massachusetts
Flood risk isn’t limited to coastal areas. FEMA updates flood maps regularly, and new construction or changing weather patterns can shift risk boundaries. Areas with a 1% or higher annual chance of flooding are considered high-risk — that’s about a one-in-four chance of flooding during a 30-year mortgage.
You can check your property’s flood risk using FEMA’s official tools:
For a step-by-step explanation, see our article:
Do I Need Flood Insurance? How to Check If You’re in a Flood Zone
Understanding the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)
Even one inch of floodwater can cause roughly $25,000 in damage to a home — and that’s before replacing furniture or appliances. Because most homeowners and renters policies don’t cover flood damage, the
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) provides affordable protection for buildings and contents.
NFIP coverage may include:
- The structure of your home or building (foundation, walls, systems, and built-ins)
- Electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems
- Appliances, flooring, and cabinetry
- Personal belongings such as furniture and clothing
FEMA also conducts coastal flood risk studies to help communities understand and reduce flood exposure along the Massachusetts shoreline.
Related Coverages
Flood insurance works best alongside other property protection.
If you’re reviewing your coverage, you may also want to explore our
Home Insurance
and Commercial Property Insurance
options. Our team can help ensure your home or business has complete protection against water and weather-related risks.
Why Work With Risman Insurance
Since 1925, Risman Insurance has helped Massachusetts families and businesses understand and manage their flood risk. Our team will:
- Review your property’s flood zone and risk level
- Explain what’s covered and what’s excluded
- Compare NFIP and private insurance options
- Find coverage that fits your needs and budget
We’re here to make sure you have the information — and protection — you need, not just a policy.
Get a Flood Insurance Quote
Protect your property before the next storm. Our licensed agents can help you review your options and provide a personalized quote.
Request a Flood Insurance Quote or call 781-396-2116 to speak with a local agent.
