Understanding flood zones and maps

Your home’s flood risk can change over time due to weather patterns, land development, and erosion. Review your property’s flood map to better understand your flood risk and insurance options.

With NFIP's pricing approach, Risk Rating 2.0, FEMA addresses rating disparities by incorporating more flood risk variables like flood frequency, multiple flood types — river overflow, storm surge, coastal erosion, and heavy rainfall — and distance to a water source, as well as property characteristics such as elevation and the cost to rebuild.

This means that although flood mapping data will still be necessary and essential for communities, and Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) will continue to be used for mandatory purchase requirements, building code requirements, and floodplain management requirements, flood maps will no longer be the most significant factor in rating premiums.

All about flood maps and zones

Flood maps show a community’s flood risk. Learn about your flood zone and risk. Do you know your flood zone? No matter where you live or work, some risk of flooding exists.

Flood map updates

Flood risks change – learn if your property was impacted by a flood map update.

Elevation Certificates

Elevation Certificates (ECs) help inform mitigation actions that will lower flood risk. While Elevation Certificates (ECs) are no longer required to purchase coverage under NFIP's pricing approach, they continue to be used for floodplain management building requirements, which can affect eligibility for Community Rating System discounts.