Improving Flood Insurance Awareness and Access in New York Communities

Response

Cornell University researchers surveyed Hudson River Valley households and analyzed state-wide datasets to examine patterns of flood insurance purchase. They studied how income, mortgage requirements, flood risk perceptions, and trust in institutions affect decisions. Researchers developed policy briefs and shared findings with state agencies, community networks, and national partners, ensuring results reached policymakers and practitioners. 

Results

• Survey results showed that over 20 percent of residents in high-risk flood zones opted not to purchase insurance, citing low perceived risk and affordability concerns.
• Both insured and uninsured households expressed low confidence that they could pay for flood damage or that FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) would cover costs.
• Insurance take-up outside federally designated flood zones was highly sensitive to local conditions, such as disaster declarations and updated flood maps.
• Findings were shared with the Hudson River Waterfront Resilience Network, the Hudson River Estuary Program, and the New York State Water Resources Institute and published in multiple academic and policy outlets, directly informing state-level flood preparedness strategies. 

Public Value

This project helps New York households and policymakers understand why many families remain uninsured despite flood risks. By identifying barriers to access, the research supports more equitable and effective flood preparedness policies, protecting communities from financial devastation and strengthening long-term resilience in the face of climate change.