New Flood Insurance Map Could Impact Homeowner Premiums

PINELLAS COUNTY, FL — A new Federal Emergency Management Administration flood insurance rate map will go into effect in Aug. 24 and may impact homeowners' insurance rates.

FEMA has updated the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) for the coastal areas of Pinellas County. Pinellas County Floodplain Management encourages property owners to find out if their flood zone or base flood elevation (BFE) is changing. The public can view the maps here.

Property owners are encouraged to talk to their flood insurance agent and obtain flood insurance before Aug. 24 to avoid potentially higher rates later.

If the flood zone or BFE for a property changes, the flood insurance rate and the requirement to carry a flood policy may also change. By law, federally regulated or insured mortgage lenders require flood insurance on buildings that are located in areas at high risk of flooding.

Standard homeowners, business owners and renters' insurance policies typically don't cover flood damage. Consequently, flood insurance for financial protection is an important consideration for everyone subject to flood risks.

Call the National Flood Insurance Program Help Center at 800-427-4661, visit www.floodsmart.gov or contact a Flood Insurance Advocate.