In this article, we help homeowners better understand the process and requirements for transferring flood insurance when selling or buying a property.
Blog
July 23, 2024
Flood insurance can serve as a risk mitigation tool to help protect individuals, businesses, and communities from the devastating financial impacts of flooding events. Floods can cause substantial property damage, but typical homeowners insurance policies generally do not cover all flood-related damages. This makes the need for flood insurance an important consideration, especially for those residing in high-risk flood zones.
What do you do when you are selling your home and have an existing flood insurance policy? Is flood insurance transferable? We explore the possibilities in this article.
Flood Insurance Transferability vs Portability
Flood insurance transferability refers to the ability of a homeowner or business property owner to transfer their existing flood insurance policy to a new owner after the sale of their property. The concept of portability, by contrast, involves moving the existing insurance policy coverage from one property you own to another property you own or are buying.
This helps ensure that individuals and businesses remain protected against flood-related losses, even when moving. By comprehending and utilizing the principles of flood insurance transferability and portability, individuals can help mitigate their flood-related loss risks and help protect their financial well-being.
Can Flood Insurance Be Transferred?
If you are wondering, “Is flood insurance transferable?” the short answer is, it depends. The longer answer takes into consideration the following factors, for example:
1. Policy Type: The type of flood insurance policy on the property can affect its transferability. For example, policies issued under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) are generally transferable, while private flood insurance policies may have different terms and conditions regarding transferability.
2. Insurance Company: Depending upon the insurer issuing the policy, the terms and conditions regarding transferability of flood insurance policies may vary. It's important to read your policy carefully and check with your insurance company to understand their terms, conditions and procedures.
3. Policy Status: The current status of the flood insurance policy being transferred is crucial. The policy must be active and in good standing (i.e., all premiums paid up to date) for it to be transferable.
4. Property Location: The location of the property can impact flood insurance transferability, especially if there have been recent changes in flood zone designations or flood maps. If the property has been reclassified to a higher-risk zone, the transfer might be subject to additional scrutiny or changes in premium.
5. Documentation: Proper documentation is essential for the transfer. The seller must provide the necessary paperwork, including proof of the existing policy, and the buyer must provide proof of the home purchase.
6. Lender Requirements: If the new homeowner has a mortgage on the property, the lender may have specific requirements regarding flood insurance coverage. Ensuring that the transferred flood insurance policy meets these requirements is essential for a smooth transition.
7. Timing: Timing can be a factor, as the transfer process should be initiated well before the closing date of the home sale to ensure there are no lapses in coverage.
8. Policy Terms and Conditions: Review the terms and conditions of the flood insurance policy. Some policies may have clauses that affect transferability, such as exclusions or limitations.
By considering these factors, homeowners can better understand the process and requirements for transferring flood insurance when selling or buying a property.
The process of transferring an existing flood insurance policy from a seller to buyer is generally straightforward.
Why Should You Consider Flood Insurance Transferability?
Transferring a flood insurance policy can be particularly beneficial for both the seller and the buyer, illustrated by the following examples:
Continuity of Coverage: The buyer can continue to benefit from the same flood insurance coverage without having to obtain a new policy. This helps ensure there is no gap in coverage, which can be critical in flood-prone areas.
Cost Savings: Often, the existing flood insurance policy may have been purchased at a lower cost, especially if it was obtained before any premium increases or changes to flood maps. The buyer may be able to take advantage of these potentially lower premiums, particularly if the property is considered “grandfathered.” This means the property may be able to retain its original flood zone classification and premium rates, even if the flood map has changed since the home was built.
Ease of Transfer: The process of transferring an existing flood insurance policy from a seller to buyer is generally straightforward. The seller would need to provide the necessary documentation to the insurance company, and the buyer would typically need to provide proof of the home purchase.
Compliance with Mortgage Requirements: Many mortgage lenders require flood insurance coverage be secured if the home is in a designated flood zone. Having a transferable policy can help the buyer satisfy this requirement.
Risk Perception: Knowing that the property already has flood insurance in place might make it more attractive to potential buyers, as it can demonstrate that the property has been deemed insurable against flood risks.
In essence, flood insurance transferability can offer enhanced peace of mind, financial benefits, and ease of transition for both the seller and the buyer of a home.
Transferability of National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Policies
If you are selling a property which is covered by flood insurance issued by the NFIP, the NFIP flood insurance policy can typically be transferred to the buyer. If you are purchasing a new home that is currently insured under a flood insurance policy issued by the NFIP, that policy may be able to be transferred from the seller to you as the buyer.
Sellers seeking to transfer NFIP policies should consult with their insurance agent or contact the NFIP directly to understand the specific guidelines, limitations, and requirements applicable to their situation. The NFIP can provide guidance and assistance throughout the transfer process, helping to ensure that buyers maintain continuous flood insurance coverage for their new property.
Tips for Transferring Flood Insurance
Transferring a flood insurance policy requires careful consideration and a thorough understanding of the flood insurance policy’s terms and conditions. When seeking to transfer a flood insurance policy, consider the following:
Reviewing the policy terms and conditions. Before initiating the transfer, thoroughly review the terms and conditions of the flood insurance policy on the property. Be sure to understand whether the policy is in fact transferable and review the coverage limits, deductibles, exclusions, and any additional provisions or limitations that may affect the transfer process.
Notifying relevant parties. Notify all relevant parties about the transfer of your flood insurance policy, including your insurance company, the new property owner, and any mortgage or lending institutions involved. Promptly informing them helps ensure a smooth transition and avoids potential gaps in coverage.
Understanding coverage changes or limitations. Transferring your flood insurance policy may result in coverage changes or limitations, especially if the property has changing flood risk characteristics.
Seeking guidance from insurance professionals. When seeking to transfer a flood insurance policy, it's beneficial to seek guidance from insurance professionals, such as your insurance broker or agent. They can provide valuable insights, answer your questions, and assist you throughout the transfer process, whether buying or selling a home with a transferable flood insurance policy.
The Flood Insurance Professionals at Acrisure
The team at Acrisure can help you navigate transferring your flood insurance policy — or help find the right coverage if you do not already have flood insurance. Contact us today to get started or request a flood insurance quote online now.
