Tag: flood

Many homes face risks that aren’t obvious, so taking a few minutes to look up the official designation can help you understand what kind of flood insurance protection you may need. The process relies on a few reliable sources, many of which are available to you, whether you’re looking to buy a new property or evaluating one you already own. Learn more from the professionals at the Carminucci Agency, serving Croton Falls, NY and surrounding areas.

Checking FEMA’s Flood Maps

The simplest way to confirm a property’s flood zone is to search the address on FEMA’s online flood maps. They aren’t perfect—but they so provide a broad overview of how the area is classified and whether a lender will likely require coverage. This step gives you a baseline, but it shouldn’t be the only part of your review.

Using Local Resources

Local agencies often track drainage issues and recent changes that haven’t made it into the federal maps yet. County floodplain managers or planning offices may offer updated information or point out areas where water tends to collect after storms. These smaller-scale details can reveal patterns that don’t always appear on national maps.

Talking With Your Insurance Agent

Insurance agents can explain how the zone affects your coverage options and what level of risk carriers attribute to the area. We may also use additional tools that factor in elevation, past claims, or neighborhood-specific data. Even if a home isn’t listed in a high-risk zone, some owners still choose flood insurance because local conditions show a history of water accumulation during heavy storms makes smart sense.

If you’re evaluating a property and want clarity before moving forward, reach out to us here at the Carminucci Agency, serving Croton Falls, NY and surrounding areas. We can help you review the maps, interpret the results, and understand which type of flood insurance is appropriate for that location.