Spring Flooding in Eastern Oregon: Understanding Your Insurance Options

Eastern Oregon often sees an increased risk of flooding in the spring due to rainfall and snowmelt from the mountains. Even after drier winters, the risk persists since frozen ground makes it difficult for water to absorb into the land. 

Contrary to common belief, flood insurance isn’t just for people living on the coast or near rivers. 

Insurance has many caveats around flood and water damage. In the blog, we provide an introduction to flood insurance so that you can understand your options to protect your home from spring flooding in Eastern Oregon.

Flood damage is not covered under your standard homeowners policy.

Homeowners insurance can cover some types of water damage depending on the coverages you select, but it never covers flooding.

Why? Flooding is considered a widespread, catastrophic risk – often much more significant than a standard homeowners insurance claim. So, it requires a separate policy due to the magnitude and predictability of losses.

Common examples of water-related damages NOT covered in a homeowners policy

• Water entering the home from rising ground water

• Overflowing rivers or creeks

Common examples of water-related damage that MAY be covered in a homeowners policy

Check your policy terms to confirm, this is not a guarantee of coverage.

• Sudden plumbing overflows

• Appliance overflows

• Roof leak caused by a covered event such as a windstorm 

What counts as a “flood”?

Insurance defines a flood as, “water covering two or more acres of normally dry land” OR “water affecting two or more properties.”

This definition makes it clear that the event has to be reasonably widespread and not a localized event like your washing machine flooding.

Floods are typically caused by

• Rapid snowmelt

• Heavy rainfall

• River or creek overflow

• Mudflow caused by water accumulation

Floods create extensive damage

The National Weather Service reports that floods cause $8 billion dollars of damage in the United States on average each year.

The widespread nature of floods means that cleanup and repairs can sometimes take months, and involve longer-lasting impacts like structural repairs, debris removal, and mold remediation. If you live in a flood prone area, it can be a good idea to invest in flood insurance to help mitigate these risks.

Flood Insurance Explained

If you can’t protect your home from floods with homeowners insurance, what do you do? You can purchase a separate flood insurance policy.

What is flood insurance?

Flood insurance is a separate policy from homeowners insurance designed specifically to protect against flood damage. It can be purchased through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or through private flood insurance carriers, often through a local agent like Hillock Insurance.

These policies can cover the building, contents, or both. 

What flood insurance typically covers

Most flood insurance policies cover damage to

• Foundation and structural components

• Electrical and plumbing systems

• Furnaces and water heaters

• Flooring and built-in appliances

• Furniture, clothing, and electronics (with limitations and only if you opt into contents coverage)

What flood insurance typically does NOT cover

Be sure to check your flood insurance policy terms and conditions so you know what isn’t included in your coverage. Common examples of expenses NOT covered are:

• Temporary living expenses if you need to live elsewhere during repairs

• Damage to landscaping or outdoor property

• Damage to vehicles (see auto insurance)

• Finished basements beyond certain limits

Do I Need Flood Insurance in Eastern Oregon? 

You can find out if you live in a flood zone by

• Reviewing FEMA flood maps

• Checking your mortgage paperwork

However, living outside of a high-risk flood zone does not mean flood insurance isn’t available or a good idea. Many homeowners in Eastern Oregon choose flood insurance for added protection, even when not required.

How to Understand Your Flood Zone

These are the flood zones that insurance uses to gauge your risk. Flood maps can be tricky to interpret, so it can be helpful to contact your local planning department after checking out the FEMA Flood Map service.

High-Risk Zones (A, AE)

• Higher likelihood of flooding

• Flood insurance often required by mortgage lenders

Moderate-Risk Zones (B, X shaded)

• Lower risk, but flooding is still possible

• Flood insurance often more affordable

Low-Risk Zones (X)

• Lowest mapped risk

• Flood losses still occur in these zones

How does flood insurance coverage work?

Flood insurance is unique in a few ways:

• They often have a waiting period between when you purchase the policy and when they go into effect, often 30 days. The waiting period can be waived in specific circumstances, like a new home purchase.

• They can have separate deductibles for building versus contents.

This means planning ahead is essential. If you’re thinking about getting a flood policy for the upcoming season, you’ll need to reach out to insurance agents at least one full month before you anticipate needing coverage.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get flood insurance in Oregon?

You can work with an agent licensed in Oregon, like Hillock Insurance, to compare your options to find a flood insurance policy.

How much does flood insurance cost in Oregon?

The cost depends on your flood zone, elevation, building type and age, and the coverage limits selected. Flood insurance is an additional cost to home insurance, though, so be sure to budget for both if needed.

Do I need flood insurance in Eastern Oregon?

Your mortgage lender may require flood insurance if you live in a flood zone. But, even if it isn’t required, it may be worth considering if you

• Live near water

• Your property has flooded before

• You want protection from unexpected flooding

Is flood insurance worth it if I’m not in a high-risk zone?

Many flood claims come from low and moderate risk areas. Flood insurance can provide peace of mind since homeowners policies won’t provide coverage for these events.

How long does flood insurance take to go into effect?

Most policies have a waiting period around 30 days. It’s best to plan ahead, especially before spring runoff begins. 

The waiting period can be waived in specific circumstances including:

• You have a loan closing on the property

• The flood map has been revised

• The mortgage lender is requiring flood insurance when it hasn’t before