Why Is Flood Insurance Expensive in Flood Zone A?
Flood insurance can be costly, especially in high-risk areas like 100-year flood zones or Flood Zone A. One of the main reasons is that flood insurance rates depend on how far a structure is above or below the Base Flood Elevation (BFE).
However, many properties in Flood Zone A have no determined BFE. This creates a challenge because insurance providers, including FEMA and private carriers, have no reference point for elevation-based pricing. As a result, they use conservative estimates, often leading to higher premiums.
Can You Find a Base Flood Elevation for Your Property?
Even if your property doesn’t have a clearly stated BFE, there may still be a way to determine one:
✅ Consult Your Local Floodplain Manager – They may have historical flood data or elevation records.
✅ Request a Community Letter – Some local officials can provide FEMA with a letter establishing a BFE, which can significantly lower flood insurance costs.
These methods have already helped homeowners in cities like Birmingham, AL, Knoxville, TN, Nashville, TN, Des Moines, IA, and Findlay, OH secure better flood insurance rates.
What Should You Do Next?
If you’ve been told there’s no Base Flood Elevation for your property, don’t settle for high premiums. Contact The Flood Insurance Guru, where our flood mitigation experts can help you explore options to lower your rates.
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