Last reviewed: October 2026.
McGriff-Williams Insurance is an independent agency in Gainesville, in business since 1983. We write flood insurance every day, and we’re licensed in Florida and serve clients in all 67 counties by phone, email and video.
These pages explain how Florida flood insurance works, in plain English and with sources. They’re general information. For your own policy, talk with a licensed agent.
Start here
- Citizens flood requirement: January 1, 2027. Citizens policies with wind coverage need flood insurance. See who’s exempt and what proof Citizens asks for.
- NFIP vs. private flood insurance. How the federal program and private flood policies differ.
- How flood premiums are figured. What FEMA’s rating looks at, including elevation certificates.
Flooding isn’t only a coastal problem
Florida’s Department of Financial Services notes that about 25% of flood claims happen in low-risk areas, and that standard homeowners policies usually don’t cover flood. (Florida DFS, Insurance Consumer Advocate)
Check your flood zone
You can look up your FEMA flood zone at the FEMA Flood Map Service Center. A map lookup is not an official determination.
Helpful public resources
- FloodSmart.gov: FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program site. NFIP Help Center: 1-877-336-2627.
- FEMA Office of the Flood Insurance Advocate
- Florida DFS flood insurance page: consumer guides (English, Spanish and Haitian Creole) and a list of companies eligible to write private flood in Florida
- Citizens Property Insurance: flood requirements
Talk with us
Questions about flood insurance, or want to compare NFIP and private options? Call (352) 371-7977 or contact us.
General information, not legal or coverage advice. Coverage depends on the policy issued, its terms and underwriting. Requirements current as of October 2026; confirm with your agent, insurer or Citizens. McGriff-Williams Insurance is an independent insurance agency licensed in Florida. We are not affiliated with FEMA, the NFIP or Citizens Property Insurance Corporation.
