NFIP Frequently Asked Questions

Provided by the National Flood Insurance Program

1. What is a Flood Insurance Study (FIS) report and where can I obtain one for my community? Answer
2. Does my community participate in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)? If it does, how does that affect me? Answer
3. How can I see the flood map for my area, and how do I read it? Answer
4. How do I find out in which “flood hazard area” or “flood zone” my home is located? Answer
5. I have looked at the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) for the area of my property and think the map is wrong. How can the map be changed? Answer
6. New maps (preliminary or effective) show my home now to be located in a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA); how does this affect my property and me? Answer
7. My lender says I need to buy flood insurance. However, I looked on the Floodsmart.gov site, and it says I am at low risk. Which one is FEMA’s official answer as to which flood zone my house is located? Answer
8. If I disagree with my lender’s determination that I am in a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA), what can I do? Answer
9. How do I obtain a copy of the Elevation Certificate for my property? Answer
10. Where can I learn more about purchasing flood insurance? Answer