Top 3 Mistakes Agents Make When Quoting Flood Insurance (and How to Avoid Them).

Let’s face it — quoting flood insurance should be straightforward, but sometimes even seasoned agents trip up. And in the world of insurance, even small missteps can lead to big headaches: client confusion, E&O exposure, and lost credibility.

If you’re selling flood insurance (or trying to), this one's for you.

Here are the top 3 mistakes I see agents make all the time — and how you can avoid them to look like the flood insurance rockstar you are (with a little help from Beyond Floods 😉).

🚩 Mistake #1: Skipping the “30-Day Waiting Period” Talk

Why it’s a problem: Most NFIP policies come with a 30-day waiting period before coverage begins. That means if your client buys a policy today and floods next week — they’re out of luck. And you'll be the one explaining why they’re not covered. 😬

But here's the kicker: Beyond Floods offers shorter waiting periods, and in some cases, immediate coverage for loan / cash closings. That’s a game-changer when you’re trying to close fast or respond to a time-sensitive inquiry.

How to fix it: Make the waiting period part of your sales script — and let clients know they have options. Try this:

“Most flood insurance requires a 30-day wait… but I can check private market options like Beyond Floods that could start much sooner.”

Be the hero before the rain starts.

🚩 Mistake #2: Misidentifying Property Type or Use

Why it’s a problem: Is it a primary home, a short-term rental, or a commercial building? Misclassifying it can tank your quote or cause serious coverage issues down the road.

NFIP has stricter limitations when it comes to secondary residences and investment properties — and often higher premiums.

Beyond Floods, on the other hand, brings more flexibility.

• Replacement cost for secondary homes
• Broader eligibility for unique or mixed-use properties
• Competitive pricing that doesn't penalize clients for having a weekend lake house

How to fix it: Ask the right questions early (and yes, double-check what they really use that beach bungalow for). Then quote through platforms that support non-cookie-cutter risks — like Beyond Floods — to make sure the policy actually matches the property.

🚩 Mistake #3: Offering a One-Size-Fits-All Policy

Why it’s a problem: Quoting NFIP only and calling it a day is like offering one pizza topping to every customer. Sure, some people like plain cheese — but others want more.

The NFIP has limitations:

• $250K max for building coverage
• No additional living expenses
• Contents are actual cash value (translation: depreciation city)

Beyond Floods offers:

• Higher limits (great for high-value homes)
• Replacement Cost for contents and dwelling
• Loss of Use coverage up to $150K
• Single deductible
• Basement dwelling and contents coverage — often excluded under NFIP

How to fix it: Present a side-by-side comparison of NFIP vs. Beyond Floods. Show your client what they’re getting — and not getting — with each. It’s not about pushing a product; it’s about giving clients the power to choose what actually protects them.

✅ Agent Checklist:

• ✅ Always explain the 30-day waiting period (and when you can beat it!)
• ✅ Confirm property use/type — and quote accordingly
• ✅ Offer more than NFIP — bring Beyond Floods into the conversation

Flood insurance may not be the flashiest part of your portfolio, but it's one of the most impactful. When you quote it confidently and correctly, you're not just selling coverage — you're protecting futures, building trust, and keeping your E&O carrier happy.

Let’s raise the bar.

💬 Tag your teammate who needs to read this. And if you want a cheat sheet for comparing NFIP vs. Beyond Floods — DM me. I’ll send it your way. Because quoting flood insurance shouldn’t feel like walking into a storm unprepared.