Short answer: Lucas County's FEMA National Risk Index report ranks hazards for Toledo tracts. The Ohio FAIR Plan is the residual market.
This guide is general information for homeowners and drivers in the Toledo area (Lucas 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 Lucas County) and the Flood Map Service Center.
Local hazards: FEMA National Risk Index for Lucas County
Use FEMA's National Risk Index and the Lucas County report.
Federal disaster declarations in Lucas County
FEMA's disaster declarations data shows 9 major disaster declarations that included Lucas County since 1965, led by severe storm events (4), flood events (3) and tornado events (2). The most recent: Severe Storms, Tornadoes, Straight Line Winds, and Flooding, 2006, Severe Storms and Flooding, 2004, Severe Storms and Flooding, 2000 and Severe Storms, Tornadoes & Flooding, 1992. FEMA also lists 5 emergency declarations for the county in the same data.
When Lake Erie sloshes toward Toledo
The Lucas County Hazard Mitigation Plan, which Toledo adopted, explains that Lake Erie produces the largest seiches of the Great Lakes. The western end of the lake is shallow and the land around Toledo sits at about lake level. When storm winds push water toward Buffalo, parts of Maumee Bay can drain almost dry. When the water rushes back toward Toledo, it can spill over the shore and damage docks, boats and nearby property.
The Maumee and ice jams
The same plan names the Maumee River and its tributaries as the county's river flood sources, with heavy rain, snowmelt and ice jams all raising water levels. It also notes that renters may not know they can buy flood coverage for their belongings. If you rent near the river or the bay, a contents-only NFIP policy is an option even when the owner insures the building. Homeowners policies generally exclude flood, and comprehensive coverage is what pays when a parked car takes on water.
Residual market: Ohio FAIR Plan
Hard-to-place Toledo homes can apply to the Ohio FAIR Plan through an agent.
More for Toledo policyholders
Check the MSC, buy flood separately and add sewer-backup coverage if your basement has had water.
Auto: Ohio 25/50/25
Ohio BMV: minimum 25/50/25.
Questions? Contact Alishahi Insurance or call (877) 711-4545. See insurance in Ohio.
Frequently asked questions
Is sewer backup covered?
Usually only with an endorsement.
What auto liability does Ohio require?
25/50/25.
Does a Toledo homeowners policy cover flood?
No; flood needs a separate policy.
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.