A flood zone is an area determined by FEMA to have at least a 1% risk of flooding per year. There are many floodplain classifications, so it is best to do your due diligence to understand the differences before shopping for land. All in all, the flood zone map helps limit liabilities, save lives and property, and preserve people’s hard-earned tax dollars. Should you buy land in a flood zone in Maryland? The short answer is yes.
Location, Location, Location
There is weight in the location in which you choose to live. If you are set on a certain neighborhood or even a few neighborhoods, your choices will be more limited. Building in a flood zone is not necessarily a downside, but it could be a challenge to work with in a given location.
Knowing the Laws
If the location is essential, then it is also essential to understand the laws regarding building in a flood zone at the state, county, and local levels. In some cases, it can cost more to develop land within the flood zone. For example, if you build within some feet from a body of water like a creek, you will need to pay for both the excavation and the trees cut down in Anne Arundel County.
Can You Build in a Flood Zone?
Given your priorities, budget, and knowledge of the law, you can definitely buy land in a flood zone and build your dream home. Should a flood ever occur, your house can be ready for the waves with the right design. Some ways to flood-proof your home include raising the elevation, turning the ground level into a garage through which floodwaters can flow unimpeded, and sloping the foundation so water drains away from it.
Should your home ever suffer flood damage, flood insurance will help to cover the repair costs. Flood insurance is mandatory if you live in a flood zone.
Get the Help of a Custom Home Builder
You don’t want to pursue a project like this alone. Work with a custom home builder who specializes in Maryland waterfront homes. Shore-Line Construction is here to build your dream home!
LEARN MORE WITH SHORE-LINE CONSTRUCTION!
At Shore-Line Construction, we know that your home is a reflection of you. That’s why we strive to make each home we build as beautiful as the family who will live there. We work with each of our clients to design a home that fits their needs. The end result is a durable, energy-efficient custom home that the family will enjoy for generations to come. Shore-Line Construction has been serving our customers for over 25 years, and we look forward to the opportunity to help you!
If you’re interested in learning more about what Shore-Line Construction can do for you, check out our website or give us a call at 410-574-6623. Keep up with all of the latest news by following our blog and social media pages on Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest, and Houzz.