Flood plain changes affect rates
By BENJAMIN C. SHARP bensharp@journal-spectator.com

Don't have flood insurance because your property is outside the 100 year flood plain? Well, now may be the time to double-check that.

And it couldn't be easier, said Monica Martin, who heads up the Wharton County Permit and Inspection Department. Martin said there are several on-line sites area residents can visit to see where their properties fall.

Checking the sites is important since flood maps changed last year.

"A lot of people not in the flood plain are now in it," she said.

That doesn't necessarily mean these residents have to purchase flood insurance, however. Martin said only those with mortgages who live inside the plain are required to have it.

But she said there are also some homeowners who are paying for the insurance, yet no longer are located in the flood plain. Knowing that can result in a reduced rate on coverage.

"Their premium would be cheaper," Martin said.

Some who now find themselves outside the flood plain might be tempted to drop the coverage, but Martin warns against that. Rainfall and flood waters seldom follow map lines, after all.

"I don't live in the flood plain, but I have insurance," she said. "I don't recommend anybody drop the coverage."

County residents may also view the maps at Martin's office, 1017 N. Alabama Rd. City of El Campo residents should contact City Hall.

Martin said the information is helpful for more than just residents wondering where they sit in the flood plain.

"Realtors, insurance agents and others can look it up themselves as can people interested in buying a piece of property," she said.