Flood Insurance for Wisconsin Homes, Basements & Belongings
Most Wisconsin homeowners don’t realize that home insurance doesn’t cover flooding. If water enters your home from outside — due to heavy rain, snowmelt, or rising water — it’s considered a flood. And unless you’ve purchased flood insurance in Wisconsin, repairs, cleanup, and replacing damaged belongings come out of your pocket.
Whether you live near the Fox River, in a Milwaukee flood zone, or just want extra peace of mind during spring storms, we’ll help you find the right policy — through NFIP or a private carrier — to keep your home protected from the ground up.
Why Flood Insurance Matters (Even in Wisconsin)
We may not live on the coast, but flooding still happens here. In fact, most flood claims come from outside high-risk zones.
- Heavy spring rains and fast snowmelt can overwhelm storm drains and fill basements in low-lying areas like Brookfield or Wauwatosa.
- Backyards and cul-de-sacs near creeks or ponds in places like Menomonee Falls or New Berlin can back up quickly.
- Flooding along the Milwaukee and Fox Rivers has caused major damage in recent years, even to homes not in designated FEMA flood zones.
What Flood Insurance Covers
Flood insurance fills the gap left by your standard homeowners insurance, which won’t cover damage from rising water.
Building Coverage
Foundation, walls, flooring, electrical and plumbing systems, appliances, HVAC, and attached garages.
Contents Coverage
Furniture, clothing, electronics, rugs, tools, and valuables stored in basements or lower levels.
Cleanup & Repair Costs
Flood cleanup can get expensive fast — insurance helps cover the bill.
Most policies come through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), though we also quote private flood options that may offer higher limits or quicker processing.
How Flood Insurance Works
Flood insurance covers losses caused by surface water affecting at least two acres or two properties. That includes:
- Water seeping into a basement after a storm
- Overflowing rivers or lakes
- Flash flooding after heavy rainfall
- Snowmelt flooding your yard and entering your home
We compare multiple carriers at once — saving you time, hassle, and money.
Who Needs Flood Insurance in Wisconsin?
Flood insurance isn’t just for waterfront properties. You may need coverage if:
- You’re in a
FEMA-designated flood zone (your lender will likely require it)
- Your basement has flooded before
- Your home sits downhill or near a body of water
- You want added protection from spring or summer storms
We’ll check your flood zone and help you decide if flood insurance makes sense for your location and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions About Flood Insurance
Does homeowners insurance cover flooding?
No. Home insurance covers water damage from things like burst pipes — not water that comes in from outside due to flooding.
Is flood insurance required?
It’s required only if your property is in a high-risk flood zone and your mortgage is federally backed. But many homeowners choose to get it even if they’re not required to.
How much does flood insurance cost in Wisconsin?
Prices vary depending on your flood zone, elevation, and the coverage you select. Some policies start under $500/year — we’ll compare options for you.
Can renters get flood insurance?
Yes. If you rent, you can buy a contents-only flood policy through the NFIP to protect your belongings from flood damage.
What’s the difference between water damage & flood damage?
Water damage from plumbing issues or roof leaks is covered under home insurance. Flood damage from rising water, outside-in, requires a flood policy.
Let’s Talk Before the Water Rises
Floods are one of the most expensive natural disasters — and most homeowners aren’t ready for them. Reach out for a free quote, and if you’re bundling with another policy, we’ll help you get the best rate available.