Insurance · Everyone · 3 min read
Flood risk and flood insurance basics
What a flood zone means, why homes outside one still flood, and when to buy coverage.
Flood zones
FEMA flood maps label areas by risk. Zones beginning with A or V are high-risk areas, where lenders require flood insurance on federally backed mortgages. Zone X areas are lower risk, not no risk.
Outside the zone still floods
Heavy rain, drainage problems and changing development cause flooding outside mapped high-risk areas. Ask sellers and neighbors about past water, and look for signs of it during inspections.
Timing
New flood policies through the National Flood Insurance Program typically take effect after a waiting period, with exceptions such as a policy bought with a new mortgage. Check timing with your agent before you close or before storm season.
General information to help you ask better questions. It isn't legal, tax, lending, insurance or inspection advice.