The Real Cost of Adding Contents Coverage to Your Flood Insurance in The Hill

Wondering how much contents coverage will raise your flood insurance premium?

If you live in The Hill, you’ve likely already asked, “What’s my building coverage?” But the next question usually comes fast:

“Do I really need contents coverage, and how much will it change my premium?”

We analyzed 2,141 real quotes from Hill homeowners to answer that exact question. Here's what we found, and what you can do to protect your belongings without overpaying.

What Counts as Contents Coverage?

Contents coverage protects everything inside your home, not the structure itself.

This includes your:

• Furniture

• Appliances

• Clothing

• Electronics

• Tools

• Other personal property

Floods rarely damage just the walls. In The Hill, water often enters through basements or lower levels, affecting washers, dryers, freezers, furniture, and electronics first.

 

NFIP vs. Private: What’s Covered in Basements?

NFIP (National Flood Insurance Program):

• Basement contents coverage is limited.

• Only essential items like washers, dryers, freezers, and mechanicals are typically included.

• Personal belongings in basements are not fully covered.

Private Carriers:

• Many offer broader contents coverage for basements.

• Coverage limits and item types vary by carrier.

Always compare policy forms before choosing.

 

How Much Does Contents Coverage Actually Add in The Hill?

Based on our local quote analysis:

• Adding $50,000 in contents coverage usually increases premiums by 25 to 30 percent

• Doubling to $100,000 adds only about 5 percent more

Example Comparison: Zone X vs. Zone AE

These are illustrative values based on Hill trends. Your price will vary depending on elevation, home value, mitigation features, and the carrier you choose.

Case Studies from The Hill

Crim Street (Zone X)

• Building-only premium: $475

• Added $50K contents: $594

Just over $50/month for contents coverage

River Des Peres (Zone AE)

• Building + $50K contents: $3,500

• Upgraded to $100K contents: $3,675

Only $175 more to double protection

Why the First $50K Has the Biggest Impact

Carriers see the first $50K as a major jump in exposure.
That’s why adding it increases your premium significantly.

But once you have $50K contents coverage, doubling to $100K only adds about 5 percent. The risk curve flattens. For most Hill homeowners, $50K–$100K is the sweet spot, balancing peace of mind and affordability.

Bottom Line for Hill Homeowners

• Adding $50K in contents usually raises your premium by 25 to 30 percent

• Doubling from $50K to $100K adds about 5 percent more

• NFIP limits contents in basements, while private carriers often offer broader protection

• Always compare multiple carriers and policy forms

FAQs: Contents Coverage & Cost in The Hill

Is contents coverage required by lenders?
No. Most lenders only require building coverage. But contents coverage is highly recommended to protect your belongings.

Does NFIP cover contents in the basement?
Only certain items, usually essential mechanicals. Personal property is often excluded. Private carriers may offer broader coverage.

What contents limit do most Hill homeowners choose?
Most select $50K to $100K. That’s where cost levels off and value increases.

Will contents coverage affect both NFIP and private quotes?
Yes, both adjust for contents limits, but private carriers offer more flexibility in how and where contents are covered.

Get a Personalized Hill Flood Coverage Review

We’ll show you how $0, $50K, and $100K in contents coverage affect your exact property.
You'll see side-by-side comparisons of NFIP and private options so you can protect what matters without overspending.

Flood Insurance Guru: Helping Hill homeowners get the right coverage at the right price since 2010.
Licensed in Missouri.