If you live in West Virginia, you know how unpredictable the weather can be—especially when it comes to heavy rainfall, snowmelt, and river flooding. With the state’s mountainous terrain and abundance of waterways, even properties outside of high-risk flood zones can be vulnerable. That’s where flood insurance comes in.
But what exactly does flood insurance cover in West Virginia—and just as importantly, what doesn’t it cover? Let’s break it down so you can protect your home and your peace of mind.
What Is Flood Insurance?
Flood insurance is a separate policy from your standard homeowners insurance. That’s because most homeowners policies do not cover flood damage—at all. To get protection from floods, you need a separate policy either through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or a private flood insurance provider.
What Flood Insurance Covers in West Virginia
Flood insurance typically includes two types of coverage:
1. Building Property Coverage
This protects the structure of your home and things attached to it. NFIP policies typically cover up to $250,000 in building coverage.
Covered items include:
- Foundation and structural walls
- Electrical and plumbing systems
- HVAC equipment (furnace, water heater, central AC)
- Appliances (refrigerator, stove, dishwasher, etc.)
- Permanently installed flooring (carpet over unfinished floor, tile, etc.)
- Detached garages (up to 10% of your building coverage)
- Built-in bookcases, cabinets, and paneling
2. Personal Property (Contents) Coverage
This covers your belongings inside the home, with coverage limits up to $100,000 under the NFIP (more may be available through private insurers).
Covered personal property includes:
- Furniture
- Clothing
- Electronics
- Washers and dryers
- Curtains
- Portable air conditioners
- Area rugs (up to a certain value)
Tip: Contents coverage is optional and must be purchased separately from building coverage.
What Flood Insurance Doesn’t Cover in West Virginia
There are a few important limitations you should be aware of:
1. Damage from Water That Doesn’t Meet the Definition of a “Flood”
Flood insurance only kicks in when water covers at least two acres or affects two or more properties. So if water damage is caused by a burst pipe, sewer backup (unless directly caused by a flood), or heavy rain that doesn’t meet those criteria, you might be out of luck.
2. Basement Upgrades & Personal Belongings
While structural components in a basement (walls, electrical systems, etc.) are covered, personal belongings and upgrades (like finished walls, carpeting, furniture, or a home theater) are not.
3. Temporary Living Expenses
Unlike homeowners insurance, flood insurance does not cover hotel stays or other temporary housing costs while your home is being repaired.
4. Mold, Mildew & Moisture
If you don’t take reasonable steps to prevent further damage, like drying out your home, the policy won’t cover resulting mold or mildew.
5. Landscaping and Exterior Features
Your yard, decks, fences, swimming pools, and patios aren’t covered under flood insurance policies.
Why It Matters
West Virginia’s geography makes flash floods and river flooding a real concern—even outside “high-risk” zones. In recent years, communities in counties like Kanawha, Greenbrier, Fayette, and Nicholas have faced significant flood damage from storms that didn’t seem catastrophic until it was too late.
Even if you’re in a moderate or low-risk flood zone, over 20% of flood claims come from these areas.
And remember—if you’re buying a home with a federally-backed mortgage in a high-risk flood zone, flood insurance is required by law.
Final Thoughts: Protect Your Home, Know Your Coverage
Flood insurance is one of the smartest investments you can make as a West Virginia homeowner—if you understand what it covers and what it doesn’t. Review your policy carefully, and consider combining NFIP coverage with a private policy if you need more protection, especially for contents or living expenses.
Have questions about flood insurance options in your area?
Whether you live near the Elk River, the Ohio, or tucked into a mountain valley, we’re here to help you understand your risk and get the coverage that fits your needs. Reach out for a personalized flood insurance review today.