According to Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) reports, there are flood zones in all fifty states. However, keep in mind that just because an area can flood, does not mean the flooding will destroy your home and your life.
When purchasing a new home, many people wonder if they are buying a house in a flood zone. Even if a home is in a flood zone, it can be entirely safe to occupy. However, finding out whether your home is in a flood zone or not can help mitigate some of the stress you may feel about moving there. It can also help you develop strategies for protecting your home and belongings.
Understanding Flood Zones
If an area is at risk of flooding, it may be designated as a flood zone. FEMA uses various codes to communicate to landowners the type of risk that an area has. There are generally three risk areas. These include:
- High-Risk Zones: These zones are commonly referred to as Special Flood Hazard Areas. In some areas, this can be coastal properties or areas centralized near bodies of water, like rivers and lakes.
- Moderate-Risk Zones: These zones are generally coded as either Zone X or Zone B. There is a slim chance that these areas will experience flooding, but the risk is generally low.
- Minimal-Risk Zones: There is a very minimal risk of flooding in these areas. However, it can still be possible. These areas are generally coded as either Zone X or Zone C on the Indiana floodplain map.
If your home is in an area categorized as a “Special Flood Hazard Area”, it means that there is a 1% chance that you will experience flooding each year.
Buying a Home That Is in a Flood Zone
Water can be highly destructive to residential structures. Even as little as one inch of floodwater can result in tens of thousands of dollars in damage. This does not mean that you should avoid purchasing a home just because it is in a zone that has a risk of flooding.
Essentially, you will need to be prepared ahead of time. Although it may not be ideal to tear down your home to build a new one completely, there are some ways you can modify your home to make it less likely to suffer the brute force of flooding. By implementing flood zone house designs into your living space, you can lessen the chances that you will be forced to deal with significant damage and losses.
New Construction in a Flood Zone
If you are looking to building a new home in a flood zone, there are specific home designs that you can use to reduce the chances of experiencing any hardships from flooding drastically. This includes using elevated house plans for flood zones. These designs position homes well above the water level, reducing the chances that they will suffer any damage during a storm or another event that causes the water to rise
Unfortunately, many homeowners or buyers fail to consider the risks associated with owning homes near bodies of water. It is vital that homeowners take necessary precautions and size up the potential for flooding before moving into their new homes. This can help you remain above water during these very challenging times.
Reaching out to Lancia Homes for Assistance
Just because your home is in a flood zone does not mean you are going to lose everything every time there is a rise in the water level. There are several options available to ensure you can remain in your home and enjoy it for many years to come.
Working with a reputable design expert can help you determine what your risks are and implement plans to decrease or eliminate the chances that you will experience significant hardships from flooding in your home.
If you have any questions or would like further assistance in determining if your home is in a flood zone, and what you can do, contact Lancia Homes today. Our experts can meet with you to evaluate your circumstances and help to address your needs to ensure your home is safe for many years to come.
