Flood exclusion
Standard homeowners language that removes coverage for rising water and flood as defined.
Plain definition
Flood exclusion on HO policies means surface water flooding, storm surge, and overflowing bodies of water are not covered perils on the base contract. NFIP or private flood policies cover qualifying flood losses with their own deductibles and building versus contents splits.
Why it matters
Hurricane wind may be covered while storm surge flood is excluded—a dual peril event creates coverage disputes without flood insurance.
Example
River cresting enters your first floor is flood, not sudden water from a burst pipe. Without flood policy, drywall and floors are out of pocket.
Common misunderstanding
“My yard flooded” from rain pooling may still be excluded groundwater unless tied to a covered peril—definitions matter more than photos.
Policy language always controls. This is educational content, not advice. See our disclaimer.