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Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner

Flood insurance information for businesses

Commercial or business insurance typically doesn't cover flood damage. However, you can buy it through the National Flood Insurance Program from an insurance agent and company.

Coverage limits

  • $500,000 for the structure
  • $500,000 for the contents

Where to find more coverage

  • Talk to your insurance agent or broker. You may need to buy it through "surplus lines." This is a segment of insurance we don't regulate, so make sure you know what the policy does and doesn't cover.
  • If your agent or broker doesn't handle surplus lines coverage, you can get a list of brokerage firms through the Surplus Lines Association of Washington.
  • Look for a company with a higher rating, like A- or better. You can check the company's rating through a rating service, such as:

    • A.M. Best Co.
    908-439-2200

    Financial Ratings - The search results provide: company name; Best's Financial Strength Rating; and the state where the insurer's home office is located

    Moody’s Investor Service, Inc.
    212-553-0377

    Standard & Poors
    1-800-523-4534

    Duff & Phelps
    1-866-282-8258

When your policy takes effect

  • Thirty (30) days after the policy is written, unless the policy is required to qualify for a mortgage.
  • Surplus lines policies typically don't have a waiting period.



Updated 02/22/2012

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Need more help? Call our FREE Insurance Consumer Hotline at 1-800-562-6900
or Email us at cap@oic.wa.gov.