Summary
Many people in the United States do not receive information about flood risks before purchasing a home. As climate change continues, flooding is increasing in many areas, affecting both homes and lives. NPR provides guidance on how to find flood risk information, especially since some states do not require sellers to disclose this information to buyers.
Key Facts
- In Central Texas, recent flash floods have raised concerns about flood risks in homes.
- More than 14 million U.S. homes are at risk of flooding in the next 30 years.
- Climate change is making flooding more common and severe.
- One-third of federal disaster aid for floods goes to homeowners outside designated flood zones.
- Fourteen states do not require sellers to inform buyers about potential flood risks.
- Past flooding information can be obtained from landlords, real estate agents, or local residents, but is not always complete.
- Some real estate websites and local apps offer flood risk data.
- FEMA provides flood zone maps, which influence insurance and planning decisions.
