Flooding: Frequently Asked Questions

Below is a list of frequently asked questions regarding flood insurance, whether residents need it and how they can be removed from the flood plain.

1. What is a floodplain?
A floodplain is an area that is likely to flood in a 100-year rainfall. This can be adjacent to a creek or water body, or simply a low area that collects water.

2. What is a 100-year flood?
A 100-year flood is the flood event that has a 1 percent probability of happening in any given year. However, this does not mean that it will only happen once every 100 years. This area has had multiple 100-year rainfall events in the last 30 years.

3. Who decides which properties are in the floodplain?
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) determines the location of the floodplain. They use historical data and computer models to establish base flood elevations and the extent of floodplain areas.

4. Who decides which properties require flood insurance?
Typically, your mortgage lender will require flood insurance if any portion of your property is within the floodplain.  This has become more standard over the last several years, and many homeowners who were not required to carry flood insurance in the past now are.

5. Why should I get flood insurance?
Flood insurance protects you in the event that your home is damaged by a flood. Standard homeowners’ insurance does not cover flood damage. If your home is in an area where it is more likely to flood, it may be a good idea to obtain flood insurance. Consult your insurance provider for more information.

6. How do I get out of the floodplain?
If you believe your property or home has been incorrectly placed within the floodplain, FEMA has a process which you can go through to remove part or all of your property from the floodplain. Generally, this requires that you get a survey of the property, including low floor elevation and lowest adjacent grade elevation, and submit paperwork and information to FEMA. The City does not manage the floodplain, and cannot approve changes. For more information, visit the FEMA website.

For more information, contact the Engineering Department at 952-826-0371.
 

 

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The City of Edina
4801 W. 50th St., Edina, MN 55424
mail@EdinaMN.gov 952-927-8861

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