Flooding is one of the most important things to understand when you buy or sell a home in South Florida. Here is what to check, what Florida law now requires sellers to disclose, and how to avoid surprises.
Florida's flood disclosure for home sales
Florida requires sellers of residential property to give buyers a flood disclosure at or before the time the sales contract is signed. As amended effective October 1, 2025, the disclosure covers whether the seller has filed flood insurance claims, whether the seller knows of flooding that damaged the property while they owned it, and whether the seller received assistance to repair flood damage.
Sellers: fill out the disclosure honestly and keep records of any past claims and repairs. Buyers: read it carefully and ask follow-up questions. When in doubt, speak with a real estate attorney.
How to check a home's flood risk
- FEMA flood zone. Look up the address on FEMA's Flood Map Service Center. Homes in high-risk zones such as A, AE or V usually require flood insurance if you have a federally backed mortgage.
- Elevation certificate. Ask the seller if one exists. It shows how high the home sits relative to expected flood levels and can affect insurance cost.
- History. Ask about past water intrusion, look for water stains, replaced drywall at the base of walls, and check the seller's flood disclosure.
- Street and neighborhood. Visit after heavy rain if you can. Low streets and nearby canals matter.
Flood insurance basics
Standard homeowners insurance does not cover flood. Flood coverage comes from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or private insurers. Get a quote during your inspection period, not after, because the premium can change what a home really costs you each month.
Tips for buyers
- Get insurance quotes (wind, homeowners and flood) before your inspection period ends.
- Ask whether the current owner's NFIP policy can be assumed, which sometimes saves money.
- Look at elevation, construction type and the age of the roof and windows.
Tips for sellers
- Gather your flood insurance declarations page, any elevation certificate and receipts for flood-related repairs.
- Share this information early so buyers can get quotes quickly and keep the deal on track.
We help buyers and sellers in Miami-Dade, Broward and the Florida Keys work through flood zones, insurance and disclosures every day. Call us before you make an offer or list your home.
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