Rising Sea Levels: Can I File a Property Insurance Claim for Damage in Fort Lauderdale?

Over the past few years, the Fort Lauderdale municipal government has taken steps to raise roads and build seawalls in the face of rising sea levels. This issue has the potential to threaten the entire city with increased flooding and other types of damage. But what can you do as a homeowner? What if you own beachfront property in Fort Lauderdale? Does your property insurance policy protect you if sea levels continue to rise? These are questions you might want to raise with an experienced property insurance lawyer in Fort Lauderdale.

Does a Standard Home Insurance Policy Cover Damage Caused by Rising Sea Levels?

Generally speaking, a standard home insurance policy does not cover damage caused by flooding and rising sea levels. In Florida, you must purchase additional coverage for flood insurance. Water damage that comes from an external source falls under the purview of additional flood insurance, and this includes rainwater and rising sea levels, storm surge, and so on. On the other hand, flooding that originates from within your home should be covered under a standard policy.

This includes issues like burst pipes, leaking appliances, and so on. It makes sense to read the fine print of your policy to determine the types of damage that might be covered. Few people read the fine print of their policies, and you might also struggle to understand the wording even if you take the time to go over it. If you need further guidance on this subject, consider contacting a property insurance lawyer.

What Is Coastal Home Insurance in Florida?

If you live directly on the coastline, you might want to consider coastal home insurance. This is a specific type of home insurance that covers the unique hazards faced by oceanfront or beachfront properties, including rising sea levels. If sea levels rise, coastal home insurance should cover any damage.

Can I Build My Own Seawall? 

Yes, it is possible to construct your own seawall as a protective measure against rising sea levels and unpredictable storm surge. This obviously represents a high investment, but it could be the right choice for certain property owners. Some communities work together to fund and plan seawalls for their mutual properties.

Storm Surge Can Affect Properties Far From the Coastline

It is important to remember that storm surge can affect properties miles away from the coastline. Even if you do not own a beachfront or oceanfront property, you might want to consider coastal homeowners insurance.

Contact Our Fort Lauderdale Property Insurance Lawyers Today

At Fuxa & Tyler, our legal team is made up of a diverse combination of attorneys who are well-positioned to protect the legal rights and financial interests of policyholders. If your property insurance claim was denied, we can help. For a free consultation, please call us today at (954) 990-5251. With an office in Sunrise, we represent policyholders in Broward County and throughout the state of Florida.

Sources: 

palmbeachpost.com/story/weather/hurricane/2025/11/25/florida-insurance-policies-hard-to-read-improvement/87360931007/

phys.org/news/2024-03-fort-lauderdale-roads-seas.html