 TITLE: How Much Does Homeowners Insurance Cost? CONTENT: How Much Does Flood Insurance Cost?\n-----------------------------------\nFloods are the most common and costly natural disaster in the United States, according to FEMA. And they don't just happen during major hurricanes. Any storm that brings in heavy rain could threaten your home, especially if you live in an area that's at risk for storm surge damage. States including Florida, Louisiana and Texas top the list.\nSince flooding isn't covered by standard insurance policies, homeowners who want coverage have to purchase an additional policy. In 2018, the average annual premium for $257,000 worth of coverage was $642. To put things in perspective, the Insurance Information Institute reports that the average flood claim in 2017—the year of hurricanes Harvey, Maria and Irma—was close to $92,000.\nOne important note: If your home is flooded due to an internal problem, like a pipe unexpectedly bursting, most standard homeowners insurance policies will cover you. Flooding caused by heavy rain or an overflowing nearby river, on the other hand, is not. Be sure to read the fine print of your homeowners insurance policy for clarification. END