If you are considering a home in Des Plaines, floodplain research is worth doing early.
Because the Des Plaines River runs through the area, some properties may be located in or near a FEMA-designated floodplain.
The best place to begin is the official FEMA Flood Map Service Center. Search using the exact property address rather than the neighborhood or ZIP code.
What Is a 100-Year Floodplain?
A 100-year floodplain is also known as a Special Flood Hazard Area.
The name can be misleading. It does not mean flooding happens only once every 100 years.
It means the area has a 1% chance of flooding during any given year. Over the life of a 30-year mortgage, that risk becomes more meaningful.
Where to Check a Des Plaines Property
Start with the FEMA Flood Map Service Center and enter the complete property address.
You may see flood zone labels such as:
- Zone AE
- Zone A
- Zone X
Zones A and AE are generally considered higher-risk flood areas. Zone X is generally considered lower risk, although it does not mean a property has no flood risk.
You can also contact the City of Des Plaines for local floodplain information. Engineering or public works staff may be able to provide additional context about a particular parcel, drainage area, or nearby waterway.
Why Floodplain Status Matters Before You Buy
Floodplain status can affect more than whether water has reached the property in the past.
It may affect:
- Flood insurance requirements
- Monthly housing costs
- Mortgage approval
- Renovation or expansion plans
- Resale considerations
- Your comfort level with the property
If the home is in or near a floodplain, ask questions early so you understand the full picture before moving forward.
You may also want to request a flood insurance estimate before writing an offer. This can help you understand the possible monthly cost rather than discovering it later in the transaction.
Questions to Ask About the Property
A FEMA map is an important starting point, but it may not tell you everything about the home’s history or condition.
Consider asking:
- Is the structure itself in the flood zone, or only part of the lot?
- Has the property experienced previous flooding or water intrusion?
- Is flood insurance currently carried on the home?
- Are there existing elevation certificates or floodplain documents?
- Have drainage improvements, grading work, or flood-control measures been completed?
- Could the flood designation affect future additions or renovations?
Your insurance provider, lender, attorney, home inspector, and local municipal staff can each help answer different parts of these questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean if a house is in a 100-year floodplain?
It means the property is in an area with a 1% chance of flooding in any given year. It does not mean flooding happens only once every 100 years.
Where can I find official flood maps for a home?
Use the official FEMA Flood Map Service Center and search using the exact property address.
Does being in a floodplain mean a home will definitely flood?
No. A floodplain designation describes risk, not certainty. A property may never flood, while a home outside a mapped high-risk zone can still experience water damage.
Will I need flood insurance?
A lender may require flood insurance when a financed property is located within certain high-risk flood zones. Requirements depend on the property, flood designation, lender, and loan program. Confirm the details with your lender and insurance provider.
Can floodplain status affect renovations?
Yes. Floodplain regulations may affect additions, major renovations, grading, and other improvements. Contact the City of Des Plaines before planning work on a property in or near a mapped floodplain.
