Flooding can happen to anyone, anywhere in Philadelphia. Tools like flood insurance can protect property owners, renters, and businesses from financial losses from flooding. Starting April 2026, Philadelphia residents get a 15% discount on all eligible flood insurance policies issued through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). This will collectively save homeowners, renters, and business owners an estimated $424,000 each year! With lower rates, more Philadelphians can afford and access policies to stay protected.  

How do Philadelphia residents get the discount?  

Philadelphia residents get an automatic 15% discount on eligible flood insurance policies. The policy must be: 

Some exceptions may apply. Residents should consult their insurance agent for individual policy details. 

Why get flood insurance? 

Flood insurance can help cover damages and losses from flooding. For some it can be a financial lifeline. You may consider getting flood insurance because: 

  • Where it rains, it can flood. Flooding can happen anywhere in Philadelphia, not just in a high-risk flood zone. Heavy rainfall can cause flooding in communities far away from a waterbody. Visit FEMA’s Map Service Center to learn if you live in a high-risk flood zone.
  • Most homeowners and renters insurance policies will not cover flood damage. To cover damage from flooding, you may need a separate policy. 
  • Anyone in Philadelphia can get flood insurance. You don’t need to live in a high-risk flood zone.   

How did Philadelphia qualify for discounted flood insurance?

The National Flood Insurance Program provides federally backed flood insurance to communities that work to reduce flood risks and meet federal floodplain management standards. Philadelphia has participated in the NFIP since 1979.  

Communities that go beyond the federal standards to reduce flood risks and improve flood resilience can get discounts on NFIP flood insurance, through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Community Rating System (CRS) program. Led by the City’s Flood Risk Management Task Force, Philadelphia gained acceptance into the CRS program in April 2026. The Task Force brings together representatives from 15 City departments including Licenses and Inspections, the Philadelphia Water Department, Parks and Recreation, Planning and Development, the Office of Emergency Management, and the Law Department, led by of the Office of Sustainability. 

Philadelphia earned a Class 7 designation for its efforts and a 15% discount on NFIP flood insurance rates. Every five years, the City can apply for a better class to earn bigger discounts.   

Learn more 

To learn more about NFIP flood insurance and how to get a policy, visit Floodsmart.gov.  

Stay prepared for future floods by signing up for ReadyPhiladelphia emergency alerts.