From 1 January 2027, every Citizens personal residential policy with wind coverage must also carry flood insurance, whatever the home's value or flood zone. Before that, it applies to homes in high-risk flood zones and to homes with dwelling coverage of $400,000 or more (from 1 January 2026).
The phase-in schedule
| From | Citizens policies that need flood coverage |
|---|---|
| Dwelling coverage of $600,000 or more | |
| $500,000 or more | |
| $400,000 or more | |
| All policies, whatever the value, plus every home in a Special Flood Hazard Area |
Source: Citizens Property Insurance. The rule comes from legislation passed in December 2022 and applies to personal residential policies with wind coverage.
How to prepare
- Find your dwelling coverage (Coverage A) and renewal date on your Citizens declarations page.
- Look up your flood zone on the FEMA map.
- Ask a licensed agent for NFIP and private flood quotes at least 30 days before you need cover. NFIP policies usually have a 30-day wait.
- Ask what would lower the premium: an elevation certificate, flood vents, or raising equipment can help in some cases.
Common questions
Does the Citizens flood requirement apply to me?
It applies to Citizens personal residential policies that include wind coverage. If your home is in a Special Flood Hazard Area, or its dwelling coverage is at or above that year's threshold, you need flood coverage now. From 1 January 2027 it applies to all of these policies.
What happens if I don't get flood insurance?
Citizens can decline to renew a policy that doesn't meet the requirement. Check your renewal notice and ask your agent well before the renewal date.
Does private flood insurance count?
Citizens asks for proof of flood coverage that meets its statutory requirements, such as the flood policy declarations page. Its flood page does not say whether a private flood policy qualifies, so confirm with your agent before you buy one.
Which Citizens policies are exempt?
Citizens says condominium unit-owner policies, tenant contents policies and policies that exclude windstorm or hail coverage do not have to carry flood insurance.