Am I in a flood zone? This isn’t a question that most people ask themselves before buying a new home… but it should be. A flooded house is a disaster, and when you live in a flood zone area, it’s bound to happen. However, there are some precautions you can take to avoid a house flood.
Check out the info below to learn how to prepare for floods.
What is a Flood Zone?
Flood zones are regions that are “inundated by the flood” after a natural disaster. After a weather event or disaster, these areas are further at risk of flooding. While flood zones have different levels, it’s best to prepare your home for the worst.
Review the FEMA Flood Map
The Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA, has a tool that makes it easy to check if a flood zone is near your address. The Flood Map Service Center displays data such as flood areas, floodways, and the risk level of your property.
Information on features such as levees, coastal walls, and the foundation flood line is provided on the map as well. The map doesn’t make any sense at first, but it’s easier to read than it might seem.
Understanding Flood Zones
Flood areas are alphabetically numbered (Zone A, Zone B, etc.). Insurers mainly use these marks to help assess flood risk and set premiums and requirements for flood insurance. Below is a brief overview of what the most common flood zones mean for you and your home.
- Zone A: This is the most prevalent flood zone and there are five kinds of floodplains in Zone A. If you live in a flood zone Zone A, it means that you are in a special area for flood danger that is not coastal. Your flood insurance premium will be affected by Zone A because your house is at a higher risk of flood damage.
- Zone B: A moderate flood threat risk threatens homes in Zone B.
- Area C: Zone C homes face a limited risk of flood danger.
- Zone D: This zone shows a potential flood danger, but the level of the threat is undetermined.
- Zone V: This is a Special Flood Risk Area with a high risk of coastal flooding.
- Zone X: Zones B and C are marked as Zone X on more recent flood insurance rate maps.
Be Aware of Changes
Floodplains and flood zone designations change over time through new development and changes in topography. Have a plan to search every five years or so for shifts in the flood zone designation of your house.
Not only does keeping an eye on your flood zone status make you better prepared for a potential flood, but it also guarantees that you always have the proper flood insurance product and coverage.
If you are in a flood zone, take a look at the highlighted link to learn how to minimize water damage.
Am I in a Flood Zone?
Am I in a flood zone is a serious question that needs to be answered. Take advantage of the resources listed above, and if you are in a flood zone, be sure to get good flood insurance coverage.
If this article was helpful, continue reading our blog. We publish a variety of content to inform and educate our readers.
