What is typically excluded in a flood insurance policy?

Flood insurance policies generally exclude losses that are a result of landslides and surface water runoff. This is because flood insurance is specifically designed to cover damage caused by rising water from a natural flood event, as defined by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).

Landslides, even when related to flood conditions, are classified differently and are typically covered under other types of insurance, such as homeowners’ policies, but only in cases where it is clearly stated in the terms. Surface water runoff also falls outside the definition of flooding specifically covered by these policies, leading to its exclusion.

Therefore, when considering flood insurance, it's important to understand that while it provides coverage for certain flood-related damages, it does not extend to all water-related issues, particularly those that stem from the actions of the earth, such as landslides. This helps clarify why this option is the correct choice in identifying what is typically excluded in a flood insurance policy.