Water damage in St. Augustine: what is different here
St. Augustine's historic downtown sits close to the Matanzas River and Intracoastal Waterway, and much of it is low. Hurricane Matthew in 2016 and Hurricane Irma in 2017 both brought surge flooding into downtown streets and homes. Nor'easters and high tides can also push water into low areas without a hurricane.
Recent storm history in St. Johns County
- Hurricane Matthew (Oct 2016): storm surge flooded downtown St. Augustine
- Hurricane Irma (Sept 2017): surge flooding again in low areas of the city
- Hurricane Nicole (Nov 2022): beach erosion and coastal damage in St. Johns County
Local risks to know
- Storm surge in downtown and waterfront areas
- Nor'easter and high-tide flooding
- Crawl-space and under-floor moisture in older homes
- Roof leaks after high winds
Local tip
St. Johns County lets you look up your evacuation zone by address before storm season.
Flood zones in St. Augustine
Downtown, waterfront and island areas include FEMA high-risk zones (AE, with VE on the coast). Check your address on the FEMA Flood Map Service Center and your evacuation zone with St. Johns County.
Common housing issues
Historic wood-frame and masonry homes, some on raised foundations, plus newer subdivisions and beach condos. Historic buildings may need specialized materials and review before repairs.
Insurance and FEMA note
Homes in historic districts may need design approval before repairs, so ask the city before replacing windows, doors or siding. NFIP flood policies generally take effect after a 30-day waiting period, so buying coverage once a storm is forecast is usually too late. More: flood vs. water damage claims (NFIP).
Insurance and cleanup advice for St. Augustine homeowners
In older raised homes, check the crawl space after any flooding. Wet insulation and wood framing under the floor can grow mold even after the living space looks dry.
What to do right now
- Stay safe: avoid water near electricity, and leave if the structure looks unsafe.
- Stop the source if you can (main water valve for plumbing leaks).
- Photograph and video everything before cleanup.
- Report the claim to your insurer and keep receipts for emergency work.
- Start drying quickly. In Northeast Florida humidity, mold can begin within 24 to 48 hours.
Full checklist: the first 24 hours after water damage.
Official resources for St. Augustine
Services in St. Augustine
St. Augustine water damage FAQ
What county is St. Augustine in?
St. Augustine is in St. Johns County. Emergency management information, evacuation zones and shelter details are published by the county: https://www.sjcfl.us/departments/emergency-mgmt/
What are the main water damage risks in St. Augustine?
Storm surge in downtown and waterfront areas; Nor'easter and high-tide flooding; Crawl-space and under-floor moisture in older homes; Roof leaks after high winds.
Does homeowners insurance cover flooding in St. Augustine?
Generally no. Damage from rising floodwater or storm surge usually needs a separate flood policy (NFIP or private). Sudden leaks like a burst pipe are often covered by homeowners insurance, depending on your policy.
Nearby cities in Northeast Florida