Idaho DOI Urges Flood Risk Review and Flood Insurance Consideration

ID Insurance News

Published March 19th, 2026

Detected March 20th, 2026

Summary

The Idaho Department of Insurance issued a notice reminding residents that March is Flood Awareness Month. The department urges Idahoans to review their flood risk, consider purchasing flood insurance as standard policies do not cover flood damage, and utilize resources from FEMA and the DOI.

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What changed

The Idaho Department of Insurance (DOI) has issued a notice coinciding with Flood Awareness Month to remind residents of the risks associated with flooding and the importance of flood insurance. The notice highlights that standard homeowners' policies do not cover flood damage and encourages individuals to assess their flood risk using FEMA's Flood Map Service Center and to consider purchasing separate flood insurance policies, potentially through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).

While this is an informational notice and not a new regulation, it serves as a reminder for consumers and businesses to proactively review their insurance coverage. The DOI emphasizes that flood insurance typically has a 30-day waiting period, urging prompt action before potential spring runoff or severe weather. Consumers are directed to insurance agents, www.floodsmart.gov, and the DOI's consumer services team for further assistance and information.

What to do next

Review personal or business flood risk using FEMA's Flood Map Service Center.
Consult with insurance agents to understand flood insurance options and coverage.
Consider purchasing flood insurance, noting the typical 30-day waiting period.

Source document (simplified)

March is Flood Awareness Month: Idahoans urged to review flood risk and consider flood insurance

Thursday March 19, 2026 BOISE, ID (March 19, 2026) – March is Flood Awareness Month, and the Idaho Department of Insurance (DOI) is reminding Idahoans that flooding is one of the most common and costly natural disasters in the country. Floods can occur anywhere—from overflowing rivers to heavy rainfall or rapid snowmelt—and even a few inches of water can cause significant damage to homes and businesses.

The DOI encourages Idaho homeowners and business owners to assess their flood risk using FEMA’s Flood Map Service Center (https://msc.fema.gov/portal/home) and to consider purchasing a flood insurance policy. Standard homeowners’ policies do not cover flood damage, meaning a separate policy is required for protection.

Residents in low or moderate risk areas are still five times more likely to experience flood damage than a house fire over a 30-year period. Despite this, NFIP data shows that Idaho has just over 5,600 flood insurance policies in effect statewide.

“Just one inch of water can cause up to $25,000 in damage,” said Director Dean L. Cameron. “Flooding can be emotionally and financially devastating. Flood insurance is one of the best ways to protect your home, your property, and your peace of mind.”

Flood insurance can be purchased through insurance companies or the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), administered by FEMA. Because flood policies typically come with a 30‑day waiting period, Idahoans are encouraged to review their coverage well before spring runoff or severe weather. For many households, NFIP coverage can cost less than $400 per year. The Idaho DOI does not regulate NFIP or its rates.

More information about flood insurance is available from your insurance agent or at www.floodsmart.gov. Additional resources on flood preparedness can be found at doi.idaho.gov. Consumers who have questions or need assistance can also contact the Idaho Department of Insurance Consumer Services team at 208-334-4319 for support.

About the Department of Insurance

The Idaho Department of Insurance has been regulating the business of insurance in Idaho since 1901. The mission of the Department is to serve and protect Idahoans by equitably, effectively and efficiently administering the Idaho Insurance Code and the International Fire Code. For more information, please visit us at doi.idaho.gov or email us at consumeraffairs@doi.idaho.gov.

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