If you are buying a home or land in Florida one of the questions you’ll want to ask is what is the flood zone.  Florida is a great place to live, but yes we do have weather events and hurricanes.  I have bought a property myself which is in a flood zone so let me tell you what you need to know!

Here are the main things you need to know about flood zones:

1. They are common and are not a huge cause for alarm. The whole state is just above sea level so almost everything is a “flood zone”.
2. If you are working with a lender, and the property is in a high risk zone, you will be required to get flood insurance on the property.  If it floods then their money is at risk. Check with your insurance professional as to what the cost will be.
3. Ask your realtor, the neighbors or locals about the history of flooding of the street and neighborhood.
4. It’s easy to find out if the property is in a flood zone.  Here are some great resources:

• FEMA Flood Maps
• Floodsmart.gov
• Riskfactor.com 
• FEMA has 7 flood zones that are designated by boundary map. Flood Zone X is considered high and dry with low to moderate risk.  Flood insurance is not required.  Flood zones A, and AE, V are at a higher risk.
• If there is a survey on the property you may see the flood zone listed there.  You can be on more than 1 flood zone in your property.
• Know what is covered and what is not covered by flood insurance.
• Note that flood zones may change over time and what zone you are in now may not always be the case.
• If you are you are building, find out what is the requirement for elevating the home.  Work with a surveyor to establish the elevation needed above sea level.

If you have other questions about real estate let me know!