If you’re a homeowner in Georgia, whether in Atlanta, Decatur, Macon, or anywhere in between, you’ve probably noticed storms getting stronger. Rain lasts longer, storm drains clog faster, and flash floods are hitting neighborhoods we never thought would flood.
With hurricane season 2025 on the horizon, it’s time to ask:
Is your home truly protected from flood damage?
Most people assume “yes.” The reality? Probably not.
What Homeowners Insurance Doesn’t Cover
Here’s a costly myth: “My home insurance covers flooding.”
It doesn’t.
Standard homeowners insurance excludes flood damage. If water rises from the ground, storm surge, heavy rain, poor drainage, your claim will almost certainly be denied. That means the cost of new flooring, drywall, appliances, and furniture, often $25,000 or more, comes out of your pocket.
Flood Risk Goes Beyond the Map
Many think flood insurance only matters if you’re in a FEMA-designated flood zone. Not true. Over 20% of flood claims are filed by homeowners outside high-risk areas.
Take DeKalb County: in 2024, a sudden thunderstorm dropped four inches of rain in just hours, flooding a finished basement. The home wasn’t in a flood zone, the owner had no flood insurance, and her claim was denied. Final bill: $30,000 out of pocket.
Flood insurance isn’t just for coastal Georgia; it’s for every Georgia homeowner.
Flooding in Georgia Is Changing Fast
In 2025, flooding isn’t only about hurricanes. Georgia is seeing repeated, localized flooding from short, intense storms. Recent examples:
East Point: Homes flooded after three inches of rain in one hour
Gwinnett: Retention pond overflowed into garages
Atlanta: Sewer backups destroyed finished basements
These aren’t rare, “once-in-a-decade” events anymore. They’re happening multiple times a year.
What Flood Insurance Covers
A flood policy protects both your home’s structure and your belongings. Coverage often includes:
Building Coverage:
Foundation, walls, insulation
Electrical & plumbing systems
Central AC, HVAC, and water heaters
Built-in appliances and flooring
Contents Coverage:
Furniture, clothing, electronics
Washers, dryers, valuables (within limits)
Policies are available through the NFIP or private insurers. Private markets may offer faster payouts, higher limits, and customizable coverage.
The Cost of Flood Insurance in Georgia
Flood insurance is more affordable than most expect:
Low-to-moderate risk areas: $400–$600 per year ($40–$50 per month)
High-risk areas: Higher, but still far less than paying out of pocket
Some insurers let you bundle flood with home or auto policies for added savings.
Remember: there’s a 30-day waiting period before new flood policies take effect. If you wait until a storm is forecast, it’s already too late.
Do You Need Flood Insurance If You’re Not Near Water?
Yes. Flooding isn’t just about rivers and lakes. Your home is at risk if it:
Has a basement
Sits on a slope or below street level
Lies in a neighborhood with aging infrastructure
Experiences drainage or runoff issues during storms
With Georgia’s clay soil and rapid development, poor drainage is a growing problem—even in new subdivisions.
Flood Insurance = Confidence + Protection
Your home is your largest investment. Flood insurance doesn’t just cover damages, it protects your time, savings, and peace of mind.
Homeowners: safeguard renovations, systems, and valuables
Renters: get contents-only policies
Condo owners: protect your unit even if your HOA has building coverage
Take the Next Step Before the Storm Hits
At OnePoint Insurance, we help Georgia homeowners:
Assess their flood risk
Compare NFIP and private market options
Bundle flood coverage with home or auto insurance
Understand elevation certificates and mitigation discounts
Flood insurance takes 30 days to activate. Don’t wait until the water is rising.
[Request a Flood Insurance Quote Today]
Your home deserves protection. Let’s make sure you’re ready before the next storm hits.
