Key takeaways
A FEMA flood map indicates the expected height of floodwaters during a base flood
The Base Flood Elevation (BFE) is the height floodwater is expected to reach during the base flood
What are FEMA flood zones and base flood elevation?
FEMA uses flood studies and Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) to identify areas with different levels of flood risk. These maps show high-risk areas, including the 1%-annual-chance floodplain, as well as moderate-risk areas, including the 0.2%-annual-chance floodplain.
The Base Flood Elevation (BFE) is the height floodwater is expected to reach during the base flood, also called the 1%-annual-chance flood. Areas subject to that flood are known as Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs).
These high-risk zones generally have flood zone designations that begin with "A" or "V," such as Zone AE, Zone AO, Zone A, or Zone A99.
How do you find the base flood elevation for your home?
You may be able to find your property's Base flood elevation (BFE) by reviewing a FEMA flood map or Flood Insurance Study for your area. However, not all FEMA flood zones include a published BFE.
When a BFE is available, it shows how high floodwater is expected to rise during a base flood, also called the 1%-annual-chance flood. To find out whether your home is above or below that level, compare the BFE with your home's elevation.
An elevation certificate may be required for building permits or home renovations, depending on community guidelines and regulations. Elevation certificates aren't required for the purchase of flood insurance.
How does base flood elevation affect homeowners insurance?
Homes below the BFE are still eligible for homeowners insurance. Generally, your homeowners insurance rate isn't affected by BFE, but a standard homeowners policy won't cover flood damage — regardless of whether your home is in a flood zone.
If your property is in a zone designated as "A" or "V", and you have a government-backed mortgage, such as an FHA loan or a VA loan, then flood insurance is required either via a separate flood insurance policy or a flood endorsement on your homeowners policy.
What does it mean if a property is "without base flood elevation"?
Some areas don't have an official base flood elevation (BFE) because conducting a detailed flood study may not be practical in smaller communities. In the past, these areas may have had higher flood insurance rates due to the uncertainty associated with limited flood risk analysis.
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