Insurance Masters, Inc.
5388 Dunteachin Dr, Ellicott City, MD 21043
View this agency's profile to learn more about their services.
City directory
Ellicott City households and business owners trust local agents to navigate carrier appetite shifts, underwriting requirements, and the claims process.
Compare local agents, coverage options, and specialties to find the right fit for your insurance needs.
5388 Dunteachin Dr, Ellicott City, MD 21043
View this agency's profile to learn more about their services.
10268 Baltimore National Pike, Ste A, Ellicott City, MD 21042
View this agency's profile to learn more about their services.
5388 Dunteachin Dr, Ellicott City, MD 21043
View this agency's profile to learn more about their services.
Learn about insurance coverage options specific to Ellicott City residents.
Ellicott City's flood history demands smart home insurance. Learn about coverage needs, flood insurance requirements, and protecting your historic Maryland home.
General Insurance EducationEssential insurance guide for Ellicott City, MD residents. Understand flood risk, new FEMA maps, and coverage needs for historic properties near Main Street.
While not legally required outside of high-risk zones, flood insurance is highly recommended for Ellicott City homeowners. The town has experienced three catastrophic floods since 2011, and many damaged properties were outside designated high-risk areas. The topography creates flash flood conditions that standard FEMA maps don't fully capture. Flood insurance for lower-risk properties is often affordable and provides essential protection.
Maryland's average homeowners insurance premium is about $1,945 per year, roughly 8% below the national average. However, Ellicott City homes typically cost more to insure due to higher property values—the median home value is around $703,000. Your actual premium depends on your home's value, age, construction, and the coverage limits you choose. Flood insurance is a separate policy with additional costs.
Replacement cost coverage pays to rebuild or repair your home with materials of similar kind and quality, without deducting for depreciation. Actual cash value pays the depreciated value of damaged property. For Ellicott City's high-value and historic homes, replacement cost coverage is essential. Consider guaranteed or extended replacement cost coverage for historic properties that may require specialized materials and craftsmanship.
No. Standard homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage—that requires a separate flood insurance policy through NFIP or a private insurer. However, homeowners insurance does typically cover water damage from internal sources like burst pipes, plumbing leaks, or roof leaks from storm damage. Understanding this distinction is critical in Ellicott City given its flood history.
You can reduce premiums by increasing your deductible, bundling home and auto insurance with the same company, installing security systems or monitored alarms, updating outdated electrical or plumbing systems, and maintaining good credit. Some insurers offer discounts for newer roofs or storm-resistant features. Shop around annually and ask each insurer about available discounts specific to your property and situation.
First, ensure everyone's safety and evacuate if authorities instruct. Document all damage with photos and videos before making temporary repairs to prevent further damage. Contact your insurance company immediately to file a claim—for flood damage, that's your flood insurer, not your homeowners policy. Keep receipts for any emergency repairs or temporary housing costs, as these may be reimbursable depending on your coverage.
Stand out to local shoppers with your team, specialties, and business hours. Member agencies get priority placement and more features.
Join the network