Flood insurance in Marshall County, West Virginia

How many buildings are insured against floods, what policies cost, and how much FEMA's flood insurance program has paid out, from official NFIP records.

Policies as of 5 September 2026Source: FEMA OpenFEMA
Active flood policies
136
NFIP policies in force
Average yearly premium
$1,920
$39 above the West Virginia average
Claims paid since 1978
$4.3M
across 541 claims
Policies in high-risk zones
82%
zones A and V, where known

Flood claims paid per year

NFIP claims paid in Marshall County, 2000–2025

The three costliest years. The worst was 2004, with $2.0 million paid on 130 claims.

Insured buildings by flood zone

Zone V / VE0%
Coastal high-hazard areas with wave action. Flood insurance is required with a federally backed mortgage.
Zone A / AE82%
High-risk areas with a 1% chance of flooding each year. Insurance is required with a federally backed mortgage.
Zone X, B, C18%
Moderate to low risk. Insurance is optional, and policies are usually much cheaper.

Zone not reported for 23% of policies; shares are of policies with a known zone.

Costliest flood events

Named events by NFIP claims paid in Marshall County

EventYearClaimsPaid
Tropical Storm Ivan2004126$1.9 million
Flooding199637$283 thousand
Flooding198062$144 thousand
Flooding197827$55 thousand
Flooding19983$25 thousand

Common questions

How much does flood insurance cost in Marshall County?

The average NFIP flood insurance policy in Marshall County costs about $1,920 a year. The West Virginia average is $1,881. Your own premium depends on your building's flood risk, elevation and the coverage you choose.

How many homes have flood insurance in Marshall County?

There are about 136 National Flood Insurance Program policies in force in Marshall County, according to FEMA's latest policy data. Private flood policies are not included.

How often does Marshall County flood?

Since 1978, NFIP policyholders in Marshall County have filed 541 flood claims, with $4.3 million paid out. 66 of those claims were in the last 10 years.

Does homeowners insurance cover flooding?

No. Standard homeowners and renters insurance policies exclude flood damage. You need a separate flood policy from the NFIP or a private insurer.

How long until a new flood policy starts?

NFIP policies usually have a 30-day waiting period, so buying when a storm is already forecast is normally too late. Exceptions apply, for example when a lender requires the policy at closing.

How to get flood insurance

Most flood policies are sold through the National Flood Insurance Program by regular insurance agents. Ask the agent who handles your home or car insurance, or find one through FloodSmart.gov, FEMA's official flood insurance site. Private flood insurers also sell policies in many areas and are worth comparing.

Other counties in West Virginia