Short answer: Suffolk County's FEMA National Risk Index report ranks hazards for Boston tracts. The Massachusetts Property Insurance Underwriting Association (MPIUA) is the FAIR Plan when voluntary markets will not write you. Keep lots maintained under Boston ordinances, and buy compulsory Massachusetts auto coverages at current statutory minimums.
This guide is general information for homeowners and drivers in the Boston area (Suffolk County). It isn't legal advice or a coverage determination. Your policy wording, underwriting, city and county ordinances, and state insurance and motor-vehicle rules control. Check your address on FEMA's National Risk Index (county report for Suffolk County) and the Flood Map Service Center.
Local hazards: FEMA National Risk Index for Suffolk County
Use FEMA's National Risk Index and the Suffolk County report.
Coast, tides and storm drains
The city's Knowing Your Flood Risk page says Boston is among the most flood-vulnerable cities in the country. Low-lying areas along its 47 miles of coastline face storm surge and seasonal high tides, but inland risk is rising too, because intense rain can overwhelm the stormwater system. The Boston Water and Sewer Commission's system drains more than 30,000 catch basins through nearly 600 miles of pipe. On FEMA's maps, Zones V and VE are coastal areas with added wave hazard.
Five coastal neighborhoods
Through Climate Ready Boston, the city completed coastal resilience plans for Charlestown, Dorchester, Downtown/North End, East Boston and South Boston. The plans are designed around a 1% annual-chance storm with sea level rise projected to 2070. The East Boston and Charlestown studies covered the waterfront from Logan Airport to Wood Island Marsh and from Sullivan Square to the Charles River Dam. If you own a condo or triple-decker in one of these neighborhoods, ask whether the building's master policy includes flood and what your own unit policy needs to cover.
Residual market: Massachusetts FAIR Plan (MPIUA)
The Massachusetts Property Insurance Underwriting Association (MPIUA / FAIR Plan) provides residual property coverage for eligible Massachusetts risks that cannot obtain voluntary-market insurance after reasonable efforts. Apply through a licensed Massachusetts producer or as the Association directs; properties must meet maintenance and occupancy standards.
Property maintenance
Clear hazards before binding—underwriters review condition.
Auto: Massachusetts compulsory coverages
Massachusetts is a compulsory-insurance state. Current minimums published by the Division of Insurance / RMV materials include bodily injury liability, uninsured motorist, property damage and PIP at the dollar amounts in force for your registration date (limits were updated for policies effective mid-2025—confirm the Mass.gov mandatory coverage limits document when you buy). Coverage must be Massachusetts-compliant.
Questions? Contact Alishahi Insurance or call (877) 711-4545. See insurance in Massachusetts.
Frequently asked questions
What is MPIUA?
Massachusetts' FAIR Plan—residual property coverage when voluntary markets will not write eligible risks.
Where do I confirm current MA auto minimums?
Mass.gov mandatory motor vehicle coverage limits publications and your RMV/insurer materials for the policy effective date.
Which NRI county covers Boston proper?
Suffolk County (25025) on FEMA's National Risk Index viewer.
Alishahi Insurance · 439 N Canon Dr, Penthouse, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 · (877) 711-4545 · CA License #4348151. General information only. This isn't legal, tax or financial advice or a coverage determination. Coverage depends on policy language and underwriting, and rules vary by state.