If your property is in a FEMA-designated high-risk flood zone (Special Flood Hazard Area, or SFHA) and you have a mortgage from a federally-regulated or federally-insured lender, then yes—federal law requires you to carry flood insurance. Your lender will not close the loan without proof of flood coverage. Zones labeled AE, A, VE, V, and similar designations on FEMA flood maps are considered high-risk.
If your property is in a moderate- or low-risk zone, your lender is not federally required to mandate flood insurance, though some lenders have their own policies that require it regardless. Even if not required, flood insurance is strongly recommended—over 25% of flood claims come from outside high-risk zones. To check your flood zone designation, visit the FEMA Flood Map Service Center. For a personalized flood risk assessment and quote, contact Bridgeway Insurance.
