In Texas, flood insurance is a separate policy because standard homeowners and renters’ insurance typically do not cover damage from rising water. While not required by state law, it is often mandatory for homeowners with federally backed mortgages in high-risk zones. 

Coverage Options

You can purchase flood insurance through two main channels:

• National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP): Managed by FEMA, these policies offer up to $250,000 for the building and $100,000 for contents. They generally have a 30-day waiting period.
• Private Flood Insurance: These often provide higher coverage limits (e.g., up to $7 million), shorter waiting periods (often 10–14 days), and extras like "loss of use" coverage for temporary living expenses. 

Key Requirements & Tips

• TWIA Requirement: If you have Texas Windstorm Insurance Association (TWIA) coverage and your home was built/altered after Sept. 1, 2009, in a high-risk zone, you must have flood insurance.
• Renters: Texas law (HB 531) requires landlords to disclose if a property is in a 100-year floodplain or has flooded in the past five years. Renters are encouraged to buy "contents-only" policies.
• Wait Times: Don't wait for a storm to be forecasted. Most policies have a 10- to 30-day waiting period before they become active.
• Check Your Risk: You can look up your property's specific risk using the FEMA Flood Map Service Center.