Insurance separates water that comes from inside the home, such as a pipe burst, from flood water that rises from outside. The first may be covered by homeowners insurance. Flood generally needs a separate flood policy.
Why the source of water matters
A burst pipe or failed appliance is typically treated as water damage from a plumbing or sudden discharge event. Rising water from a bayou, overflowing creek or storm surge is flood. Wind driven rain that enters through storm damaged openings is treated differently again.
Houston flood history
According to the Harris County Flood Control District, Hurricane Harvey in 2017 put roughly one trillion gallons of water on Harris County, and thousands of structures outside mapped high risk zones flooded. The Texas Tribune and weather reports also note major floods in 2001, 2015 and 2016.
How to document your loss
Photograph high water marks, the direction water entered, and damage to flooring and belongings. Record dates and weather. Keep receipts for emergency repairs. Your mitigation provider can supply moisture logs. See flood damage cleanup in Houston and storm and hurricane water damage.
Waiting periods and preparation
NFIP policies generally have a waiting period before coverage starts, commonly 30 days, so do not wait until a storm is in the Gulf. Confirm details at FloodSmart or with your agent.
Where to start
If water has already entered, call right away through the Houston water damage restoration page so a local provider can begin extraction and drying.
Frequently asked questions
Does homeowners insurance cover Harvey type flooding?
Generally no. Flood needs a separate policy.
Do I need flood insurance outside a flood zone?
FEMA says many claims come from outside high risk zones.
Who decides if damage is flood or not?
Your insurer decides under your policy terms.
Sources and further reading
- Harris County Flood Control District
- FloodSmart: National Flood Insurance Program
- Texas Department of Insurance
Related services
Flood Damage Cleanup
Cleanup, removal and drying after rising water enters a Houston property.
Learn more
Storm and Hurricane Water Damage
Wind driven rain, roof damage and flooding from tropical storms.
Learn moreGeneral information, not legal, insurance or engineering advice. Water Damage Restoration Houston does not perform the work.