May 19, 2025

Understanding Flood Insurance: Are You Adequately Covered?

Lindow Insurance Flood Insurance

Understanding Flood Insurance in Wisconsin

As spring storm season arrives in Wisconsin, homeowners and business owners alike are keeping a close eye on rising rainfall and melting snow. While many people believe their standard insurance policies cover all water-related damage, that’s often not the case—flood insurance is typically a separate policy.

Let’s break down what flood insurance actually covers, why you might need it (even if you’re not in a high-risk zone), and how to find out if your current policy leaves you vulnerable.

Why Standard Insurance Often Isn’t Enough

Most homeowners and commercial property insurance policies cover water damage from things like burst pipes or roof leaks. But they don’t cover damage from external flooding, such as:

  • Heavy rain causing water to enter your basement
  • Overflowing rivers, lakes, or storm drains
  • Rapid snowmelt seeping into your foundation

If water enters your home from the outside and causes damage, you could be left paying out of pocket unless you have flood insurance in place.

What Does Flood Insurance Cover?

Flood insurance typically falls into two categories:

1. Building Property Coverage

  • Foundation walls
  • Plumbing and electrical systems
  • Furnaces and water heaters
  • Built-in appliances and permanently installed carpeting

2. Personal Property Coverage

  • Furniture
  • Clothing
  • Electronics
  • Other personal belongings damaged by floodwaters

If you own a business, commercial flood insurance can also cover loss of equipment, merchandise, and, in some cases, business interruption expenses.

Do You Really Need Flood Insurance If You're Not Near Water?

The short answer: yes—possibly.

According to FEMA, more than 20% of flood claims come from areas outside of designated high-risk flood zones. In Wisconsin, spring thaw, heavy rains, and clogged storm drains can cause localized flooding just about anywhere.

Ask yourself:

  • Has your area seen heavier rainfall in recent years?
  • Do you have a basement or crawlspace vulnerable to water entry?
  • Do you live in a newly developed area with updated drainage patterns?

If you answered yes to any of these, flood insurance is worth a conversation.

Is Your Coverage Adequate? Let’s Find Out.

At American Advantage Lindow Insurance, we help Wisconsin families and business owners prepare for whatever the season brings. If you’re unsure whether your current policy covers flood risks—or if you’d like to explore your options—we’re here to walk you through it.

Don’t wait until after the storm.

Get in touch today for a policy review or a custom flood insurance quote.

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