Frequently Asked
Do I need flood insurance in Austin, Texas?
Quick Answer
Flood insurance is required for federally backed mortgages (FHA, VA, Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac) on properties in a FEMA Special Flood Hazard Area (Zone A or Zone AE). Properties outside the designated floodplain do not require flood insurance by lender mandate, though buyers may choose to purchase it voluntarily. Even properties in Zone X (moderate risk) can experience flooding in significant storm events — Austin's 2015 Memorial Day floods affected structures well outside the official 100-year floodplain.

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