How to Read Flood Zone Maps

[Leigh Ann Smith]

We are looking at property in the Houston area, so flood zones are always a concern when evaluating a property.  Frequently, the property itself does not appear to be in the 100 yr. flood plain (Zone AE), but the street in front of the house is.  I understand that the streets are lower and you'd expect the water to go there first, but what I want to know is whether the home itself would be considered to be in that zone for insurance purposes.