Short answer: The Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency's Planning and Mitigation Section administers the NFIP, and every Rhode Island municipality participates, so residents statewide can buy NFIP coverage. On the shore, the Coastal Resources Management Council separately regulates activities in the coastal zone and publishes a coastal property guide to FEMA flood zones and insurance.
This guide is general information for Rhode Island property owners and renters about flood risk and the National Flood Insurance Program. It isn't a coverage determination. FEMA maps, your community's floodplain ordinance and your policy wording control.
RIEMA administers the NFIP
Per RIEMA's Floodplain Management page, the Planning and Mitigation Section is responsible for administering the NFIP in Rhode Island. If a municipality adopts and enforces a floodplain ordinance, all citizens in that municipality can purchase flood insurance, and RIEMA reports that every Rhode Island municipality participates, along with a Tribal Nation. RIEMA also supports Community Rating System communities.
CRMC on the coast
Shoreline projects also go through the Coastal Resources Management Council. CRMC's Coastal Property Guide on FEMA flood zones and insurance is the state's plain-language explainer for coastal owners. Before adding a deck, seawall or addition near the water, expect both local floodplain and CRMC review.
Coverage
Most Rhode Island homeowners policies exclude flood and storm surge. Quote NFIP through FloodSmart. New policies generally wait 30 days, so don't wait for a hurricane watch.
Questions? Contact Alishahi Insurance or call (877) 711-4545. See insurance in Rhode Island.
Frequently asked questions
Who administers the NFIP in Rhode Island?
RIEMA's Planning and Mitigation Section.
Can anyone in Rhode Island buy NFIP flood insurance?
Yes, because every Rhode Island municipality participates in the NFIP.
Who regulates coastal construction in Rhode Island?
The Coastal Resources Management Council, alongside local floodplain rules.
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.