Skip to main content

«  View All Posts

Is Private Flood Insurance Cheaper Than NFIP in Connecticut?

November 19th, 2025

2 min read

By Chris Greene

A Connecticut shoreline neighborhood used to illustrate a blog comparing private flood insurance to NFIP coverage.

Tired of rising NFIP flood insurance premiums?
Wondering if private flood insurance can truly save you money, or if it’s just a risky shortcut?

You’re not alone. Nearly every Connecticut homeowner facing high NFIP rates asks the same question: Is private flood insurance actually cheaper than the government’s plan?

For most properties in Connecticut, yes, it’s significantly cheaper. In this article, you’ll learn:

  • How much cheaper private flood insurance really is, based on real data

  • Why private companies can often beat NFIP pricing

  • When NFIP might still be your best option

  • A simple 3-step plan to compare your rates and switch confidently

Let’s cut through the confusion and help you protect your home and your budget.

Rising NFIP Costs and Limited Options

Connecticut homeowners are seeing their NFIP premiums rise every year under FEMA’s Risk Rating 2.0. Yet most feel stuck with it, assuming it’s the only compliant option, especially if their mortgage requires coverage.

Yes, Private Insurance Is Often Cheaper

We analyzed 196 recent Connecticut policies and found the average annual premium for private flood insurance was $1,082, often 30 to 50 percent less than NFIP rates.

Real Savings from Connecticut Homeowners

City NFIP Premium Private Premium Annual Savings
Hartford $2,250 $1,100 $1,150
New Haven $1,980 $1,200 $780
Stamford $3,100 $1,550 $1,550

These aren’t hypotheticals, these are real savings from our client files.

Why Is Private Flood Insurance Cheaper?

It seems strange that a for-profit company could offer a better deal than a government-backed plan. But three key reasons make it possible:

1. Smarter Risk Modeling

Private insurers use AI and granular data to assess your home’s true flood risk, beyond what FEMA’s model can see. They factor in:

  • Property elevation

  • Specific foundation type

  • Nearby flood mitigation, such as levees or drains

Lower risk means lower premium.

2. Selective Underwriting

Unlike the NFIP, private insurers can decline the highest-risk homes. This lets them focus on moderate-risk properties and reward lower-risk homes with lower prices.

3. Competitive Pressure

With dozens of private carriers in the market, they must compete on both coverage and price. The NFIP, by contrast, has no competition and no incentive to lower premiums.

The #1 Way to Know If You’ll Save: Get a Quote

Every home is different. Some high-risk properties may still qualify more affordably through the NFIP. But for most Connecticut homes, especially inland or moderate-risk, private options are not only valid but often much more cost-effective.

Neill Insurance (100)

Your Connecticut Flood Insurance Questions, Answered

Is private flood insurance always cheaper?

Not always. For the highest-risk or coastal properties, NFIP might still be your best option. But for the vast majority of homes in Connecticut, private options are substantially cheaper.

Will my mortgage lender accept private flood insurance?

Yes. Under the Biggert-Waters Act, lenders are legally required to accept compliant private policies. All our carriers meet those standards.

If it’s cheaper, does that mean the coverage is worse?

Quite the opposite. Private policies often offer:

  • Higher building and contents limits

  • Replacement cost on belongings, instead of depreciated value

  • Loss of use coverage, such as hotel stays after a flood

Stop Guessing, Start Saving

You’ve seen the numbers. You’ve learned the reasons. You’re no longer stuck in the NFIP by default. Whether you’re looking to lower your monthly costs, upgrade your protection, or both, it starts with a quote.

We’ve helped hundreds of Connecticut families find better coverage and unlock thousands in savings. Let us help you next.

Chris Greene