Question 1

Do I really need flood insurance if I'm not in a high-risk flood zone?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you should strongly consider it. Over 30% of flood insurance claims come from moderate-to-low risk areas, and Hurricane Ida demonstrated that flooding can happen anywhere near Lake Pontchartrain. Policies in lower-risk zones are much more affordable—often a few hundred dollars per year—making them a worthwhile safety net. Remember that your standard homeowners policy covers zero flood damage regardless of your zone designation.

Question 2

Why is homeowners insurance so expensive in Slidell compared to other parts of the country?

Accepted Answer

Louisiana faces frequent hurricanes, rising construction costs, and increasing claim volumes, which drive up premiums. Insurance companies have been leaving the Louisiana market entirely, reducing competition and forcing more homeowners to Louisiana Citizens, the state's expensive insurer of last resort. St. Tammany Parish specifically experiences additional scrutiny because of hurricane risk concentration near the Gulf of Mexico.

Question 3

What's the difference between hurricane damage covered by homeowners insurance versus flood insurance?

Accepted Answer

Your homeowners policy covers wind damage from hurricanes—like a torn-off roof, broken windows, or tree damage to your house. Flood insurance covers water damage from storm surge, heavy rain, or rising water. Most hurricane damage involves both types, so you need both policies to be fully protected. After Hurricane Ida, many Slidell residents discovered this the hard way.

Question 4

Can insurance companies really deny me coverage just because my roof is old?

Accepted Answer

Yes, absolutely. In Louisiana's current insurance market, carriers are extremely selective about roof condition, especially in St. Tammany Parish. They view older roofs as high-risk for both wind damage and water intrusion claims. If your roof is over 15-20 years old or shows wear, you may face coverage denials or significantly higher premiums until you replace it with storm-resistant materials.

Question 5

What does the 15% FEMA discount for St. Tammany Parish actually save me on flood insurance?

Accepted Answer

The 15% discount applies automatically to all flood insurance policies in St. Tammany Parish because the parish participates in FEMA's Community Rating System. If your flood insurance would normally cost $1,500 per year, you'll pay $1,275 instead—saving $225 annually. This discount is built into your rate when you purchase through the National Flood Insurance Program, so you don't need to request it separately.

Question 6

How do the new 2026 Louisiana insurance laws affect my rates?

Accepted Answer

Starting in 2026, insurers cannot raise your auto insurance rates or add surcharges for your first coverage lapse, protecting you if you temporarily lose coverage. They also cannot increase your premiums solely because you turned 65. Additionally, homeowners insurers must now offer stated value policies that don't depreciate over time, giving you more coverage options when shopping for home insurance.

Insurance Agents in Slidell, Louisiana (LA)

Insurance agencies serving Slidell

Champion Insurance Partners LLC

Insurance Products Resource, LLC

Insurance Agents in Slidell, Louisiana (LA)

Insurance agencies serving Slidell

Champion Insurance Partners LLC

Insurance Products Resource, LLC

Jennifer Boesch Insurance

Livingston Insurance LLC.

Lordes Insurance Group LLC

Maxsoe Insurance Service

Pelican Coastal Insurance

Insurance Guides for Slidell

Insurance in Slidell, Louisiana: Your Complete Guide

Home Insurance in Slidell, Louisiana

Auto Insurance in Slidell, Louisiana

Frequently asked questions