FEMA Maps

[Hugh Hill]

I'm looking to purchase FEMA maps. Anyone knows a good company that that I could check with? Cost?

Hugh

 

[Charlotte Dixon]

I'm happy with Interflood for $95/year. Although, they don't point out if my property is in the flood zone or not. I must make that determination. But then, I'm only 2 weeks in to this...maybe someone can tell me if I'm missing something. I will say, it's a lot quicker than paper maps and looks good in the report if you want it in there. www.interflood.com

 

[rtubbs]

Hugh, I discarded my Lochsheil on cd, basically put away my paper maps and am very happy with interflood. I have been using that source for a couple of months and am extremely pleased with their product. I still refer to my paper maps when there might be a question.

 

[David S. Roberson]

Buy maps for your market are from FEMA. No annual cost, no charge for 49 states you don't cover, no one to blame but yourself if you get the wrong map.

 

[Mountain Man]

Like Ron & Charlotte, I have been using Interflood for months now. One flat fee ($95) for 200 "look ups" and the most up to date data for the WHOLE country. NO per county or per state charge :!: If they don't have a flood map, the county or community does not participate in FEMA flood studies. It is already in digital format, so it transfers right over into my reports for EDI.

However, you can buy flood maps from FEMA on their web site for around $2 per map, and a yearly subscription fee to receive up date letters. Either way, you will need to pay for a subscription to be sure that you have the most current FEMA data.

 

[Hugh Hill]

Thanks for help. I will check interflood out.

Hugh

 

[Michael_Combs]

Charlotte, Hugh, and others,

I would just like to mention that InterFlood does provide flood zone information when available. The census tract, flood zone, community name and number for a property are given as well as the flood map. InterFlood also has a 10 map return policy. Try up to 10 maps and if you don't like the product you can return it.

Michael Combs
InterFlood Product Manager

 

[Restrain]

I use a CD from Digital Media Services. Maps change in this area very seldom so updates are few and far between. Also I DO NOT DO A FLOOD DETERMINATION. For that matter, you can put "Third Party" in the flood map area and be correct as all lenders have to get a flood determination from a party that will Guarantee it, such as Transamerica. Why spend $$$ when you don't have to. You are not required to make a flood determination and if you do, you can be held liable for an error.

If you use a flood determination company, be sure to make some statement limiting your liability. Otherwise, you might find out how good your E&O policy is.

 

[Michael_Combs]

InterFlood is updated several times per month usually with over 500 changes per month. Maps may not change very frequently in your area, but it only takes one small change to make your data completly wrong. InterFlood is comparably priced, especially if you have to purchase multiple areas/counties from a CD service. Why not buy data that you know is current?

InterFlood is prohibited for use in determinations. However, determinations are in the works for InterFlood. Providing flood data to your lender now will help establish you as a flood authority to your lender. When InterFlood determinations are available, you can then resell them and offer 'one-stop' shopping for your clients. InterFlood will carry all of the insurance and risk.