A Personal Note
The heavy rains that hit San Antonio on April 21, 2026, hit close to home — literally. The downpour triggered a roofing failure that caused water to enter the house and seep down interior walls in a bedroom and dining room, damaging sheetrock, trim, and flooring that need to be removed and replaced. Our pool also overflowed during the event, though thankfully it didn't reach the house. We carry both standard homeowners insurance and flood insurance, and right now the claim is being processed under our homeowners policy. The experience prompted me to share this helpful guide from Homes.com — because understanding your coverage before something happens matters more than most people realize.
Homeowners Insurance vs. Flood Insurance: Know the Difference
The most important thing to understand: where the water comes from determines which policy applies. Homeowners insurance typically covers water damage that originates inside the home — a burst pipe, a leaking appliance, or in my case, a roofing failure. Flood insurance covers water from external sources: storms, rising rivers, and storm surge.
What Standard Homeowners Insurance Usually Does NOT Cover
• Foundation damage from flooding, soil movement, drought, or normal settling
• Municipal sewer backups — unless you've purchased a specific add-on
• Most water intrusion tied to foundation or crawl space issues
If your home is newer, a builder's warranty may provide some protection against structural water damage — worth checking before you file a claim.
When You Need Flood Insurance
Flood insurance — available through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or private carriers — covers home foundations, anchoring systems, furnaces, water heaters, and permanent fixtures. Homes in high-risk flood zones (Zone A or Zone V) with federally backed mortgages are typically required to carry it. Even outside mandatory zones, the April rains are a reminder that flood coverage provides genuine peace of mind.
Consult your insurance agent to review your current coverage and understand exactly where your homeowners policy ends and flood coverage begins. Don't wait for the next storm.
Questions About Homeownership in San Antonio?
Bruce X. Forey helps buyers and sellers navigate every aspect of San Antonio real estate — including the practical realities of homeownership. Reach out anytime: [email protected].
