When Alissa Gerber and her husband bought their home in Connersville in 2019, they assumed federal flood insurance would be available if needed. The recent historic flooding from the Whitewater River proved otherwise. The water buckled the floor, destroyed the electric panel and furnace, and ruined all personal belongings, leaving the family living in a friend’s camper.
Why most Hoosiers lack flood coverage
Indiana has more than 2.5 million households, yet only 15,780 held flood‑insurance policies in 2025, according to FEMA – less than one percent. The program is mandatory only for homeowners with a mortgage in a high‑risk flood zone, typically defined as a 100‑year‑flood area. Outside those zones, flood insurance is optional and is not part of a standard homeowners policy.
Insurance agents say cost is a major deterrent. “Depending on the location and home size, some policies in low‑to‑moderate risk zones can still cost thousands of dollars a year,” explained Lilly Carbajal of Gatton Insurance Agency in Greenwood. Many residents also simply do not know the option exists unless their lender requires it.
Renters and low‑risk areas also at risk
Renters can purchase flood coverage for personal belongings, but uptake is similarly low. “They’re the ones that you can see fall through the cracks,” said Scott Hollingsworth of Indianapolis‑based Flood Plain Consultants. Without a policy, both homeowners and renters rely on regular homeowners insurance, which does not cover flood damage.
The recent floods, described by officials as a once‑in‑1,000‑year event in parts of the state, have forced more than 1,000 people from their homes. The disaster has renewed calls for broader awareness. “At least get a quote, even for minimal coverage,” urged Carbajal. “It’s better than nothing, because something like this can happen and your regular policy will not cover any of it.”
State assistance and next steps
Governor Mike Braun announced that the Indiana Disaster Relief Fund can provide up to $5,000 per household for basic needs such as clothing and food. The Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority is also offering temporary housing assistance, helping families secure hotel rooms or apartments. Applications are available online or by calling 211.
Federal FEMA funding for individual assistance has not yet been approved, and the state is actively requesting it. In the meantime, families like the Gerbers depend on community donations and charitable aid.
For Indiana residents, the lesson is clear: even in areas deemed low risk, flood insurance can be a vital safety net. Free quotes are available through the National Flood Insurance Program, which partners with private insurers to offer discounted rates to eligible homeowners.
Original reporting: Mirror Indy — read the source article.
