Published February 16, 2026

Flood Zones & Insurance in Greater Houston: What Buyers Need to Know

Author Avatar

Written by Christy Bulerez

Flood Zones & Insurance in Greater Houston: What Buyers Need to Know header image.

Houston-area buyers should always treat flood research like a normal step—not a “maybe.” Even homes that didn’t flood in past events still deserve a careful look.

My quick buyer checklist

  • Ask for insurance quote early (don’t wait until days before closing)
  • Review seller disclosures
  • Look at drainage, elevation feel, and street grading
  • Understand that flood insurance can be separate from homeowners insurance

Why this matters in 2026

Insurance costs and requirements can impact affordability just as much as interest rates—so get clarity early.

If you send me a listing you’re considering, I’ll tell you the exact due diligence questions I’d ask before we write.

Categories

Buyers

Tags

Homebuying checklist Houston, Drainage and grading, Elevation certificate, Seller disclosure Texas, Flood zone due diligence, NFIP flood insurance, FEMA flood map, Flood insurance Houston, Houston flood zones

|

I agree to receive automated marketing calls and texts (SMS/MMS) from PLACE, its affiliates and their agents. Msg & data rates may apply. Msg frequency varies. Reply STOP to cancel. Consent is not required for purchase. I also agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

home

Are you buying or selling a home?

Buying
Selling
Both
home

When are you planning on buying a new home?

1-3 Mo
3-6 Mo
6+ Mo
home

Are you pre-approved for a mortgage?

Yes
No
Using Cash
home

Would you like to schedule a consultation now?

Yes
No

When would you like us to call?

Thanks! We’ll give you a call as soon as possible.

home

When are you planning on selling your home?

1-3 Mo
3-6 Mo
6+ Mo

Would you like to schedule a consultation or see your home value?

Schedule Consultation
My Home Value

or another way