Flood Zone Lookup
Assess your flood risk and estimate flood insurance costs based on your state, property type, and elevation relative to the base flood level.
Select your state and property details above to assess flood risk.
FEMA Flood Zone Designations
| Zone | Risk Level | Description | Insurance Required? |
|---|---|---|---|
| A, AE | High | 1% annual chance flood (100-year floodplain). Detailed study with base flood elevations. | Yes (with federal mortgage) |
| V, VE | Very High | Coastal high-hazard area with wave action. Found along coastlines. | Yes (with federal mortgage) |
| X (shaded) | Moderate | 0.2% annual chance flood (500-year floodplain). Moderate risk. | No, but recommended |
| X (unshaded) | Low | Minimal flood hazard. Outside the 500-year floodplain. | No |
Understanding Flood Insurance
Flood damage is not covered by standard homeowners insurance. The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), administered by FEMA, provides flood insurance for properties in participating communities. Most mortgage lenders require flood insurance for properties in high-risk flood zones (A and V zones). Even if you are not in a high-risk zone, flood insurance is available and often recommended -- over 25% of NFIP claims come from properties outside of high-risk areas.
NFIP policies cover up to $250,000 for building coverage and $100,000 for contents. For higher coverage limits, private flood insurance is available from many carriers. Under the NFIP's Risk Rating 2.0 system (launched in 2021), premiums are based on individual property risk rather than just flood zone designation, considering factors like distance to water, flood frequency, and replacement cost.
How to Check Your Exact Flood Zone
While this tool provides state-level risk assessment, your specific flood zone depends on your exact location. To find your property's official FEMA flood zone, visit the FEMA Flood Map Service Center at msc.fema.gov and search by address. You can also request a flood zone determination from your lender or insurance agent. An elevation certificate, prepared by a licensed surveyor, can document your property's elevation relative to the base flood elevation and may help reduce your insurance premium.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a FEMA flood zone?
FEMA flood zones are geographic areas that FEMA has defined according to varying levels of flood risk. These zones are shown on Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs). High-risk zones (A and V) have a 1% or greater annual chance of flooding, often called the "100-year floodplain." Moderate-risk zones (X shaded) have a 0.2% annual chance (500-year floodplain). Low-risk zones (X unshaded) are outside both. Your flood zone determines whether flood insurance is required and affects your premium.
Do I need flood insurance?
If your property is in a high-risk flood zone (A or V) and you have a federally-backed mortgage (FHA, VA, USDA, or conventional from a federally regulated lender), flood insurance is required by law. Even if not required, FEMA recommends flood insurance for all homeowners. Standard homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage. A Preferred Risk Policy for lower-risk properties can cost as little as $300-400 per year.
How much does flood insurance cost?
The national average NFIP premium is about $700 per year, but costs vary significantly. High-risk properties in flood-prone states like Florida or Louisiana can pay $1,500 to $3,000+ annually. Properties below the base flood elevation pay significantly more than those above it. Under Risk Rating 2.0, premiums more accurately reflect individual property risk, so two neighbors can have very different rates. Basements and mobile homes also increase premiums.
What is the difference between Zone A and Zone X?
Zone A (and its subtypes AE, AH, AO) is a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) with a 1% annual chance of flooding -- meaning there is a 26% chance of flooding over a 30-year mortgage. Flood insurance is required here with a federal mortgage. Zone X (unshaded) is a minimal-risk area outside both the 100-year and 500-year floodplains. Zone X (shaded) is moderate risk with a 0.2% annual chance of flooding. Insurance is not required in X zones but is still recommended.