Idaho Department of Insurance Emphasizes Lack of Flood Coverage in Homeowners’ Insurance

BOISE, Idaho — Following the remnants of Hurricane Hilary, various regions across Idaho and Oregon experienced rainfall ranging from 1 to 3 inches, affecting even the lower areas of the Treasure Valley. This resulted in minor flooding incidents in western Idaho and eastern Oregon. The recent occurrences of flooding underscore the necessity of flood insurance for residents of both states. It’s crucial to note that homeowners’ insurance does not extend coverage to damages arising from flooding.

Randy Pipal, Chief of the Consumer Services Bureau at the Idaho Department of Insurance, elucidated, “There are some exceptions, like if the roof leaks, it’s probably covered. If it’s water originating from the external environment, it’s likely to be excluded from the homeowners’ policy.”

Given this context, the question arises: Should homeowners consider obtaining flood insurance? In light of the recent rainfall events, Idaho News 6 held discussions with an insurance company to delve into the realm of flood coverage, identifying who holds it and who should consider acquiring it.

Posted at 11:13 AM, August 22, 2023, and last updated at 7:13 AM, August 22, 2023

The aftermath of Hurricane Hilary saw a range of areas across Idaho and Oregon receiving rainfall between 1 to 3 inches, including the lower reaches of the Treasure Valley. Consequently, minor flooding was observed in parts of western Idaho and eastern Oregon. The occurrences of flooding underscore the significance of flood insurance for residents of Idaho and Oregon. Importantly, homeowners’ insurance does not encompass damages resulting from floods, as Randy Pipal, the Chief of the Consumer Services Bureau at the Idaho Department of Insurance, detailed: “Certain exceptions apply, such as roof leakage, which might be covered. However, damages due to external water intrusion are typically excluded from homeowners’ policies.”

The Department of Insurance underscores the importance of proactively assessing one’s flood risk and considering the acquisition of a flood insurance policy. Currently, Idaho maintains approximately 5,600 active flood insurance policies. Pipal noted, “Numerous areas within the Boise Foothills lie within flood zones, a fact many might overlook due to the washes stemming from mountain runoff.”

To secure flood insurance, individuals can opt for policies offered through the National Flood Insurance Program, administered by FEMA. It’s advisable not to wait until a storm is imminent or has struck, as there’s generally a 30-day waiting period before the policy becomes effective. The cost of NFIP policies is relatively affordable, typically averaging less than $400 per year.

For those seeking more information or wishing to acquire a policy, detailed information is accessible on the provided website. Additionally, inquiries can be directed to (208) 334-4319 or 1(800) 721-3272.