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Hurricane Harvey in 2017 showed that flooding can reach homes far from the coast. Parts of Montgomery County along the West Fork of the San Jacinto River, Lake Creek, Spring Creek and smaller bayous flooded badly. Here’s how to know your risk and protect yourself.
How to check your flood zone
- Go to the FEMA Flood Map Service Center at msc.fema.gov and enter your address.
- Check Montgomery County’s and the City of Conroe’s floodplain resources for local maps.
- Ask the seller for a flood disclosure. Texas sellers must disclose flood history and whether the home is in a floodplain.
What the zones mean
| Zone | Meaning | Insurance required? |
|---|---|---|
| AE / A | High risk (1% annual chance, the “100-year floodplain”) | Yes, with a federally backed mortgage |
| Shaded X | Moderate risk (0.2% annual chance) | No, but recommended |
| X (unshaded) | Lower risk | No, but still possible |
What flood insurance costs
Under FEMA’s Risk Rating 2.0, premiums depend on your home’s specific risk, not just the zone.
- Lower-risk Zone X: often $400–$900/year
- High-risk zones: $1,500 to several thousand/year
Compare NFIP with private flood policies. Private policies sometimes cost less or cover more (such as higher limits or additional living expenses).
Most flood policies have a 30-day waiting period. Don’t wait until a storm is in the Gulf.
How to protect your home
- Keep drainage clear: gutters, downspout extensions and grading that slopes away
- Raise the AC condenser, water heater and electrical panel where you can
- Install a backflow valve on sewer lines
- Keep sandbags or flood barriers for garage doors
- Store valuables and documents up high or in waterproof containers
- Sign up for alerts from Montgomery County OEM and check the SJRA lake release updates
After a flood
Photograph everything, call your insurer, and start drying out within 24–48 hours to limit mold. Licensed water mitigation companies can help.
Frequently asked questions
How do I find my flood zone in Conroe?
Enter your address in the FEMA Flood Map Service Center (msc.fema.gov). Montgomery County and the City of Conroe also offer local floodplain maps and floodplain administrators who can help.
Do I need flood insurance if I'm not in a flood zone?
Lenders don't require it, but a large share of flood claims come from homes outside high-risk zones. Policies in Zone X are often affordable.
Does homeowners insurance cover flooding?
No. Standard homeowners policies exclude flooding from rising water. You need a separate NFIP or private flood policy.
