Flood damage is not covered by homeowner insurance policies. For this reason, the City of Salinas participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) which provides flood insurance options for all structures, whether or not they are located in the floodplain. This insurance can be purchased from participating insurance agencies. The insurance agent may ask for an elevation certificate to begin coverage. This document identifies the building's risk by comparing the building's elevation to the flood height level in that area. 

There is a 30-day waiting period by the NFIP before coverage takes effect. Therefore, plan ahead and purchase insurance before the rainy season.

Flood Insurance Requirements  

Under federal law, homes or businesses located in the high-risk flood area that receive federal disaster assistance and/or have government-backed mortgages are required to purchase and maintain flood insurance. Per this requirement, the minimum flood insurance coverage must be equal to the amount of the loan, the maximum amount available under the NFIP based on structure type (currently $250,000 for residential property structures), or the insurable value of the property.  

Structures located in moderate-to low- risk areas are not required by federal law to obtain flood insurance, but can still be required by the lender. It is the lender's responsibility to review the Flood Insurance Rate Map to determine if the structure is located within the Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA). The lender will notify you if your structure has been added to the SFHA to update your flood insurance coverage. 

Flood Insurance Rates and Coverage

Various factors are used to calculate flood insurance rates, including flood hazard location, elevation, and building age. These factors can cause a drastic variety between rates, so it is best to contact a licensed participating insurance agent to help you determine the premium for your specific property. 

Through the NFIP there are two types of coverage: building and contents. Building coverage includes the building, foundation, electrical and plumbing system, and other items permanently attached to the structure, typically excluding basements. Contents coverage may be purchased separately to insure other contents of the insured building. A complete list of what is covered by these two types of coverage and more information about flood insurance can be found in the NFIP's Summary of Coverage Brochure. 

Additionally, if your building is located in the floodplain area there are ways to reduce your flood insurance premium. The NFIP "How Can I Pay Less?" website notes common flood mitigation options property owners can consider to help reduce their coverage cost.

Community Rating System 

The City of Salinas participates in the NFIP Community Rating System (CRS). This voluntary incentive program recognizes the community's effort to reduce flood risk, and promote the awareness of flood insurance by awarding a NFIP policy premium discount for developing these extra measures, beyond the minimum floodplain management requirements.

The U.S Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergancy Management Agency (FEMA) has awarded the City of Salinas a class seven (7) rating since 2014. This allows Salinas residents to qualify for a 15 percent discount on flood insurance premiums when located in the SFHA and a five percent discount outside the SFHA. Participation in the CRS program demonstrates the City's effort to help reduce property damage and save lives in the event of a flood.