Short answer: Norfolk is an independent city in FEMA's National Risk Index. The Virginia Property Insurance Association is the state FAIR Plan.
This guide is general information for homeowners and drivers in the Norfolk area (Norfolk city). 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 Norfolk city) and the Flood Map Service Center.
Local hazards: FEMA National Risk Index for Norfolk
Use FEMA's National Risk Index and the Norfolk city report.
Federal disaster declarations in Norfolk city
Since 1972, Norfolk city has been part of 9 federal major disaster declarations, according to FEMA's declarations summaries; by incident type the most common were hurricane events (5), severe storm events (1) and snowstorm events (1). The most recent: Hurricane Matthew, 2016, Hurricane Irene, 2011, Severe Storms and Flooding Associated With Tropical Depression Ida and A Nor'East, 2009 and Hurricane Isabel, 2003. FEMA also lists 7 emergency declarations for the county in the same data.
Tides, surge and rain
The City of Norfolk's flood awareness page describes three kinds of flooding: rain that overwhelms storm drains, storm surge from hurricanes and nor'easters, and tidal flooding. Tidal flooding can happen on a regular basis with ordinary moon cycles, and wind and sea level rise make it worse. In other words, some Norfolk streets can flood on clear days.
Look up your property on Forerunner
Norfolk uses a public Forerunner site where you can check a property's flood zone, see its flood data and find any elevation certificate on file. Lenders usually require flood insurance in zones AE, AH, AO and VE. The city recommends coverage even where it isn't required, because both coastal and rain flooding threaten every part of Norfolk. Norfolk takes part in the Community Rating System, and the Planning Department responds to flood zone determination requests within two business days.
Residual market: VPIA
The Virginia Property Insurance Association writes property coverage for Virginians who can't get it in the voluntary market; see its FAQ.
More for Norfolk policyholders
Check the MSC; flood coverage is separate and lenders often require it. Cars parked on flooded streets need comprehensive coverage to be covered for water damage.
Auto: Virginia 50/100/25
For policies effective on or after January 1, 2025, Virginia DMV requires at least $50,000/$100,000 bodily injury and $25,000 property damage.
Questions? Contact Alishahi Insurance or call (877) 711-4545. See insurance in Virginia.
Frequently asked questions
Is tidal flooding covered by homeowners insurance?
No; it requires flood insurance.
Are cars damaged by street flooding covered?
Only with comprehensive coverage.
What auto liability does Virginia require?
50/100/25 for policies effective since January 1, 2025.
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.