Short answer: Marion County's FEMA National Risk Index report ranks hazards for Indianapolis tracts. The Indiana FAIR Plan is the residual property market after declinations from multiple unrelated insurers. Keep lots maintained and carry Indiana-required auto liability.
This guide is general information for homeowners and drivers in the Indianapolis area (Marion 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 Marion County) and the Flood Map Service Center.
Local hazards: FEMA National Risk Index for Marion County
Open FEMA's National Risk Index and the Marion County report.
Federal disaster declarations in Marion County
FEMA's disaster declarations data shows 12 major disaster declarations that included Marion County since 1991, led by severe storm events (9) and flood events (3). The most recent: Severe Storms, Straight-Line Winds, Tornadoes, and Flooding, 2026, Severe Winter Storm and Snowstorm, 2014, Severe Storms, Flooding, and Tornadoes, 2008 and Severe Winter Storms and Flooding, 2005. FEMA also lists 6 emergency declarations for the county in the same data.
After the August 2026 flood
On August 25, 2026, Marion County received a federal disaster declaration for individual assistance after severe flooding. The city's Flood Resources page tells residents to contact their own insurer first, since FEMA aid may cover damage a homeowners policy doesn't. It also advises photographing and filming the damage and writing down serial numbers. Owners whose property lost value can ask the Marion County Assessor for a reassessment with Form 137R. The page lists October 25 as the SBA deadline for physical-damage loan applications.
Substantial damage and rebuilding costs
Damaged homes in the special flood hazard area are flagged so the floodplain administrator can do a Substantial Damage Evaluation. If a home is found substantially damaged, it has to be repaired to current flood protection rules. A home that had an active flood policy may be eligible for Increased Cost of Compliance coverage to help pay for that. Most flooding in Marion County happens along the White River, where the city says the 100-year floodplain can be one to two miles wide.
Flood insurance in Indianapolis
Indianapolis has been in the National Flood Insurance Program since May 15, 1984, and requires a permit for any new development or redevelopment in a special flood hazard area. A mortgage on a home in one of those areas means flood insurance is required. Owners elsewhere in the city can still buy a policy. You can check your property on the Indiana Floodplain Information Portal or email questions to [email protected], according to the floodplain management page.
Residual market: Indiana FAIR Plan
The Indiana FAIR Plan provides basic residual property coverage. Consumer materials commonly require declinations from multiple unrelated insurers before FAIR Plan placement—confirm the current count and forms with a licensed Indiana agent. Auto residual coverage is separate (IAIP), not the FAIR Plan.
Auto: Indiana 25/50/25
Marion County drivers must keep at least $25,000 per person and $50,000 per crash for injuries plus $25,000 for property damage; the BMV explains proof of financial responsibility and the suspension that follows an uninsured crash.
Questions? Contact Alishahi Insurance or call (877) 711-4545. See insurance in Indiana.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Indiana FAIR Plan?
Residual basic property coverage when voluntary markets will not write eligible risks—see indianafairplan.com.
Does the Indiana FAIR Plan write auto?
No. Auto assigned risk is a separate program.
Which NRI county covers Indianapolis?
Marion County (18097).
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.