Yes, flood insurance can be purchased through the federal government. However, it can also be purchased as a rider to some homeowners insurance policies. You will want to compare homeowners insurance quotes then compare them to the flood coverage offered through the federal government to find out which is your best option.
Flood insurance can be purchased from the government from the national flood insurance program (NFIP). If your community participates you can purchase flood insurance from your insurance agencie through the national flood insurance program.
If you live in an area considered to be a flood zone by the government, flood insurance is mandated by your mortgage company and the government. If you near the coast, hurricane insurance is a good investment.
In the US, flood insurance can be bought only from the Federal Government.
Federal Government
You would have to purchase a separate policy. Flood is not covered on a homeowners policy and the flood program is set up by the government. Usually, the reason that people get flood insurance is because their mortgagee requires that you have it. If you are located in a flood plain, you can obtain a flood policy. A flood plain is an area that is deemed to have flooded in the past 100+ years. See your insurance agent about getting a flood insurance policy if you need one. Be aware, flood policies are offered by other companies as well as the government program. Also, flood coverage does not go into effect for thirty (30) days after you take out the policy. This prevents people from running to get a policy when a flood is already eminent.
No. Several insurance companies offer flood insurance apart from the National Flood Insurance Program.
If your property is in a flood plain or your mortgagor requires flood insurance, no, you cannot cancel flood insurance.
The flood insurance rate maps are created cooperatively by the National Flood Program and the governing city/county where the property is located. If you are looking to get a flood zone determination to see if you can be changed to a better zone, search the Internet for "flood zone determination companies". There is a cost for this service, but can save you hundreds on the cost of insurance. Another suggestion is to speak to your neighbors about their flood insurance. You may discover that changing to a mortgage company that does not require flood insurance may be the best solution.
Flood insurance is generally not included in homeowners insurance policies, so you may want to consider flood insurance. Flood insurance is required in some flood zones. Contact your local insurance agent to find out if your vacation home is in a flood zone that requires flood insurance.
Government Service Insurance System
"Flood Insurance" will cover damage resulting from a Flood. Homeowners Insurance will not.
Flood insurance rates can be compared from a number of websites such as Floodsmart. The website Floodsmart provides site visitors with detailed information and comparisons on numerous insurance companies.