Flood Insurance in Westchester, Fairfield County and NYC
Protect Your Home and Family from Summer Storms
Flooding in Westchester and surrounding areas is not a matter of if it’s a matter of when. Every few years, heavy summer rains, nor’easters, and hurricane remnants bring rising waters that damage homes, disrupt lives, and drain savings. At Refine Risk, we build Flood Insurance systems that protect your home, your belongings, and your financial future from the devastation that floods can cause.
Whether you own a single-family home, a condo, a co-op, or you rent in Westchester, NYC, NJ, or CT, flood insurance is an essential layer of protection that every resident should have.
Why Flood Insurance Matters
Many homeowners mistakenly believe that standard homeowners insurance covers flood damage. It doesn’t. A separate flood insurance policy is the only way to protect yourself against water damage from storm surges, heavy rain, overflowing rivers, or sewer backups caused by flooding.
Every summer, local communities across Westchester, including Tuckahoe, Bronxville, Scarsdale, Mamaroneck, White Plains, and beyond face significant flood risks. From basement flooding in older homes to entire neighborhoods submerged by sudden downpours, the financial impact can be overwhelming.
Floods can happen anywhere. According to FEMA, over 20% of flood claims come from properties outside high-risk flood zones.
Who Needs Flood Insurance?
Homeowners — Whether you live in a high-risk flood zone or not, your home is at risk during storm season.
Condo & Co-op Owners — Even if the building is covered, the master policy typically doesn’t cover your personal unit or belongings.
Renters — Protect your furniture, electronics, and personal property from flood damage.
Landlords & Property Investors — Safeguard rental income and investments with proper flood protection.
What Does Flood Insurance Cover?
Flood insurance policies, often backed by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or private carriers, typically cover:
Building Property Coverage
- Foundation walls, electrical and plumbing systems
- Furnaces, water heaters, and appliances
- Permanently installed carpeting, paneling, and cabinets
Personal Property Coverage
- Furniture, clothing, and electronics
- Washers and dryers
- Freezers and the food in them
Local Expertise Makes the Difference
Living in Westchester, NYC, Fairfield County, and the NJ Gold Coast means understanding the unique flood risks in each community:
- Westchester: Areas like Mamaroneck, White Plains, and Yonkers have experienced repeated basement flooding and sewer backups in recent summers.
- NYC: Brooklyn, Queens, and Lower Manhattan are vulnerable to storm surge from hurricanes and intense rainfall that overwhelms sewer systems.
- Fairfield County: Coastal areas and riverside communities face flood threats from both the Sound and heavy inland rains.
- NJ Gold Coast: Hoboken, Jersey City, and Edgewater have a history of flooding due to tides, river overflow, and summer storms.
Refine Risk understands these local risks. We work with homeowners and renters to build systems that prepare you for the next storm before it hits.
Flood Season in Westchester and Beyond
Flooding peaks during summer hurricane season and the nor’easters that come every few years. These storms bring heavy rains, flash floods, and dangerous storm surges that can damage homes—even those not directly on the water.
Every home is at risk, not just waterfront properties.
Debunking the Myths
Myth: I’m not in a flood zone, so I don’t need flood insurance.
Fact: 20% of flood claims are from homes in low- or moderate-risk areas.
Myth: My homeowners insurance covers flooding.
Fact: It does not. Only flood insurance protects against rising water.
Myth: Flood insurance is too expensive.
Fact: Policies can be surprisingly affordable, often less than you think, especially for homes outside high-risk zones.
How Much Does Flood Insurance Cost?
| Region | Avg Annual Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Westchester | $500 – $1,500 | Depends on flood zone, home elevation, and coverage amount. |
| NYC | $600 – $2,000 | Higher risk in coastal neighborhoods like Red Hook or Rockaways. |
| Fairfield County | $550 – $1,600 | Coastal and riverside homes have higher exposure. |
| NJ Gold Coast | $600 – $1,800 | Riverfront properties in Hoboken/Jersey City carry higher risk. |
Note: Rates vary by elevation, flood zone, and building construction.
Can I get flood insurance even if I’m not in a high-risk zone?
Yes. Flood insurance is available to anyone in a community that participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or through private carriers. Rates are often more affordable for properties in lower-risk areas.
How long does it take for a flood insurance policy to go into effect?
NFIP policies typically have a 30-day waiting period from the time of purchase until the policy takes effect. Some private insurers offer shorter waiting periods, but it’s best to plan ahead and not wait until storm season starts.
Can I get coverage for basement flooding?
Yes, but flood insurance has limitations. It typically covers essential equipment and appliances in a basement, like water heaters, furnaces, and electrical systems. However, coverage for finished walls, flooring, and personal belongings in a basement is usually limited or excluded.
Why Choose Refine Risk?
- Local expertise in Westchester, NYC, NJ, and CT
- Access to both NFIP and private flood insurance carriers
- Personalized coverage systems that fit your home and risk profile
How to Get Started
Don’t wait until the next storm hits. Protect your home, your belongings, and your peace of mind with a flood insurance system built for your community. Call our office today or complete the form below to get started.
Let’s build a plan that keeps your home and your family safe from the next flood.