As a prospective home buyer in the Boise area, it is important to be aware of the flood zones in the area to make an informed decision about your purchase. Flooding is a common natural disaster in many areas, and it can have a devastating impact on homes and properties. In this blog, we will discuss what you need to know about flood zones in the Boise area.

What is a Flood Zone?

A flood zone is an area that is at risk of flooding due to its location in relation to a body of water. Flood zones are determined by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) based on the likelihood and severity of flooding in the area. There are several different flood zones in the Boise area, each with varying levels of risk.

Flood Zones in Boise

Boise is located in Ada County, which has several flood zones that prospective homebuyers should be aware of. The most common flood zones in the area are:

• Zone A: This is the most common flood zone in the Boise area and is considered a high-risk zone. Homes in this zone have a 1% chance of flooding each year, also known as the 100-year floodplain.
• Zone AE: This is also a high-risk zone and has the same likelihood of flooding as Zone A. The difference is that homes in Zone AE are typically located closer to a body of water, such as a river or stream.
• Zone X: This is a moderate-risk zone, which means that there is a 0.2% chance of flooding each year. Homes in this zone are not typically required to have flood insurance, but it is still recommended.
• Zone D: This is a low-risk zone, which means that there is a 0.2% chance of flooding each year due to rainfall. However, homes in this zone are still at risk of flooding due to other factors, such as a broken water main.

It is important to note that flood zones can change over time due to natural or man-made factors. Therefore, it is recommended to check the FEMA flood zone maps periodically to stay up-to-date.

What You Need to Know as a Home Buyer

As a homebuyer, it is important to consider the flood zone when making an offer on a home in the Boise area. Here are some key things to keep in mind:

• If the home is in a high-risk flood zone (Zone A or AE), the lender will likely require flood insurance. This can add an additional expense to your monthly mortgage payment, so it is important to factor this in when determining your budget.
• Even if the home is not in a high-risk flood zone, it is still recommended to have flood insurance. Flooding can happen anywhere, and it is better to be prepared.
• If the home has a history of flooding, it may be wise to reconsider your offer. Flood damage can be expensive to repair and may cause long-term damage to the home.
• You can obtain a flood zone determination from a reputable company or check the FEMA flood zone maps yourself. It is important to have accurate information before making a decision about purchasing a home.

Conclusion

In summary, flood zones are an important consideration for homebuyers in the Boise area. Knowing the flood zone of a potential home can help you make an informed decision about your purchase and prepare for any potential flooding. Remember to check the FEMA flood zone maps periodically to stay up-to-date on any changes in your area. By being proactive and taking the necessary precautions, you can protect yourself and your investment from the impact of flooding.  If you have further question, please reach out to 1st Choice Mortgage or your Home Insurance Agent. 

Link here for the FEMA Flood Zone Map.