"A" ZONE
Definition: Zone "A" is the Flood Insurance Rate Zone that corresponds with the 100-year floodplains that are determined in the Flood Insurance Study (FIS) by approximate methods. Because detailed hydraulic analyses are not performed for such areas, no BFE or depths are shown within this zone. Therefore; Mandatory Flood Insurance purchase requirements apply.
Contrary to the rules, FRS uses critical information that allows us to be successful with over 90% of our attempts to assist with establishing a BFE (issued by FEMA) for individual structure owners nationwide. A determined BFE positively affects not only the subject property, but surrounding structures as well by placing accuracy as to the correct level of risk that should be applied. This often results in a reduced annual Flood Insurance Premium with the exact amount of coverage that meets the Lender's requirements.
In conclusion, FRS's focus is to ascertain the correct depiction of the contour of the land specifically affecting the subject structure by providing our level of expertise and creating transparency as to the solutions that may apply to establish a BFE.
"AO" ZONE
Definition: "AO" Zones are typically areas of sheet flow flooding. These areas are given approximate depths of flooding on the FIRM (Flood Insurance Rate Map), typically 1-3 feet. Average flood depths derived from detailed hydraulic analyses are shown in this zone. Some "AO" Zones are designated with high flood velocities such as alluvial fan flooding and washes. Therefore; Mandatory Flood Insurance purchase requirements and Floodplain management standards apply.
FRS works closely with local Surveyors, Floodplain Managers and City Officials in order to ensure the proper detailed information is provided to FEMA in order to establish the correct Base Flood Elevation (BFE) for each individual structure in the "AO" Zone (depth 1-3 feet). This then allows FRS to confirm the accurate information necessary for the current Flood Insurance Agent (for the subject structure), often resulting in a reduction of the Mandatory Annual Flood Insurance Premium.
As a final point, the rating for a structure that falls in an "AO" Zone is often rated inaccurately. This is not intentional, however, due to high-velocity flows; active processes of erosion, sediment transport, and deposition; and unpredictable flow paths, FEMA encourages communities to have more restrictive requirements for these areas.
*The established BFE is recognized by the NFIP (National Flood Insurance Program) and issued by FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency).
