Flood Insurance

Please consider purchasing flood insurance well before the threat of flooding arises. You can purchase flood coverage at any time, but be aware that there is typically a 30-day waiting period after you’ve applied and paid the premium before the policy becomes effective, with the following exceptions:

1. If the initial purchase of flood insurance is in connection with the making, increasing, extending or renewing of a loan, there is no waiting period. The coverage becomes effective at the time of the loan, provided application and payment of premium is made at or prior to loan closing.
2. If the initial purchase of flood insurance is made during the 13-month period following the effective date of a revised flood map for a community, there is a one-day waiting period. This only applies where the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) is revised to show the building to be in an SFHA when it had not been in an SFHA. 

The policy does not cover a “loss in progress,” defined by the NFIP as a loss occurring as of 12:01 a.m. on the first day of the policy term. In addition, you cannot increase the amount of insurance coverage you have during a loss in progress.

NFIP flood insurance is sold through private insurance companies and agents, and is backed by the Federal government. Check with your insurance provider to see if they have received FEMA flood insurance certification training.

Please view the Flood Insurance web page on Missoula County's Floodplain Administration website for additional information.

Flood Insurance Claims

If your property is flooded or within a flood prone area, please take a look at the FEMA's Flood Insurance Manuals and Handbooks.