Question 1

Do I really need flood insurance if I'm not right on the waterfront?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you should seriously consider it even if you're not on the water. About 34% of Long Island properties face flood risk over 30 years, and floods can happen anywhere from heavy rain or drainage issues. Standard homeowners insurance doesn't cover flood damage at all, so one basement flood could cost you tens of thousands out of pocket. If you have a mortgage, your lender may require it anyway depending on your specific flood zone designation.

Question 2

How much does home insurance typically cost in Bay Shore?

Accepted Answer

Most Bay Shore homeowners pay around $2,882 annually for standard homeowners insurance with $300,000 in dwelling coverage, plus an average of $1,325 to $1,650 for separate flood insurance. Total annual costs typically range from $4,200 to $4,500 or more depending on your property's location, flood zone, and coverage limits. Waterfront properties in high-risk flood zones can pay significantly more.

Question 3

What's the difference between wind damage and flood damage coverage?

Accepted Answer

Wind damage from hurricanes is typically covered by your standard homeowners policy, though you'll pay a separate hurricane deductible of 1% to 5% of your dwelling coverage. Flood damage from storm surge, rising water, or heavy rain is never covered by standard policies—you need a separate National Flood Insurance Program policy for that. After a hurricane, you might file claims under both policies for different types of damage to the same property.

Question 4

What is a hurricane deductible and how does it work?

Accepted Answer

A hurricane deductible is a percentage of your home's insured value that you pay before insurance coverage begins after a hurricane. In Suffolk County, these range from 1% to 5%. For a home insured at $300,000, a 2% deductible means you pay the first $6,000 of hurricane damage yourself. This is separate from and usually much higher than your standard deductible for other types of claims.

Question 5

How do I find out what flood zone my Bay Shore property is in?

Accepted Answer

Visit FEMA's Flood Map Service Center online and enter your property address. This will show you exactly which flood zone your property falls into and your level of flood risk. You can also contact the Town of Islip's Floodplain Management office for assistance. Knowing your flood zone is essential because it determines whether you're required to have flood insurance and how much it will cost.

Question 6

What should I do if I can't find affordable home insurance in Bay Shore?

Accepted Answer

Contact New York's C-MAP program, a voluntary network of insurers that helps coastal homeowners find coverage. Bay Shore properties within one mile of the South Shore qualify for assistance. C-MAP can connect you with insurers willing to cover coastal properties that other companies consider too high-risk. You can also work with an independent insurance agent who specializes in coastal properties and has access to multiple insurance companies.

Insurance Agents in Bay Shore, New York (NY)

Insurance agencies serving Bay Shore

Advantage Insurance Brokers, Inc.

Brownyard.com

Insurance Agents in Bay Shore, New York (NY)

Insurance agencies serving Bay Shore

Advantage Insurance Brokers, Inc.

Brownyard.com

D&R Agencies

J.d.a. Hurley Inc Insurance Agency

Oxford Millin Insurance Agency Ltd

Salon & Spa Specialty Insurance

Sound Harbor Insurance Services LLC

Insurance Guides for Bay Shore

Home Insurance in Bay Shore

Auto Insurance in Bay Shore

Bay Shore Insurance Guide

Frequently asked questions