Let's Talk Hampton Roads Flood Zones

Would you buy a house in a flood prone area? Let's talk flood zones.

Nearly all of Hampton Roads is technically in a flood zone, but not all flood zones require flood insurance.

Flood Zones X & X500 do not require flood insurance in order for you to get a mortgage, but they are still technically flood zones.

Other Zones such as A, AO, AH, A1-A30, AE, A99, AR, AR/AE, AR/AO, AR/A1-A30, AR/A, V, VE, and V1-V30 do require flood insurance in order to get a mortgage.

Flood insurance rates depend a lot on the elevation of the house, but buying a house in a flood prone area does come with other things you need to think about in addition to the cost of flood insurance.

If a hurricane/nor'easter comes, do you have somewhere to evacuate?

Your house may be elevated, but do you want to move your car to higher ground in case your area floods?

What evacuation zone are you in? (Helpful link: https://www.vaemergency.gov/know-your-zone/ )

Knowing the answers to these questions is VITAL if you are purchasing in a flood prone area.

Sometimes the house is worth the extra hassle a few times every few years when storms come, like if you have an AMAZING view, or a neighborhood you adore, but they are all good things to think through before you're in the house!