By the time many homeowners realize they need flood insurance, it’s often too late. Recent events in North Carolina and across the Southeast, triggered by Hurricane Helene and Milton, have exposed a startling reality: too many homes remain uninsured for floods in Hampton Roads, even in high-risk areas.
According to an NBC News analysis of Census Bureau data, combined with insights from Neptune Flood, only about 2% of residences in the 100 counties hardest hit by Helene-related power outages had flood insurance. For inland counties, the numbers were even more alarming, with less than 1% of the hardest-hit areas in North Carolina covered by flood insurance. South Carolina fared worse, with only 0.3% of residents protected.
While coastal regions are more likely to be insured, inland communities often overlook this vital protection. Many mistakenly assume that their standard homeowners insurance policy covers floods, but that’s far from true. The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), managed by FEMA, accounts for over 95% of flood insurance policies nationwide, yet its reach remains insufficient.
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What’s more, FEMA does offer limited assistance to those impacted by floods without coverage, but it pales in comparison to the average claim payouts for those with flood insurance. For example, the aid provided is often just a fraction of what’s needed to rebuild and recover.
In Southeastern states like Virginia, where we serve our Hampton Roads clients, only about 5% of residences have flood insurance. That leaves many homeowners vulnerable to devastating losses. As we’ve seen with Hurricane Helene and other storms, floods don’t just hit the coast—they can devastate inland communities as well.
At Goodrich & Watson Insurers, we urge homeowners across Virginia to review their insurance policies and seriously consider flood coverage, regardless of location. The time to act is now—before the next storm hits.
For expert advice and personalized flood insurance options, contact us today.
To help those affected by Hurricanes Helene & Milton, visit the Red Cross.
