PSI Virginia Real Estate Practice Exam

Which zones indicate high-risk flood areas?

1. A or V zones

2. B or X zones

3. C or D zones

4. E zones

The correct answer is: A or V zones

High-risk flood areas are specifically designated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) using the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) system. The A and V zones denote regions that are at a significant risk for flooding during 100-year flood events, meaning that there is a 1% chance of flooding in any given year. The A zones are generally inland areas subject to flooding, while the V zones are vulnerable coastal regions that experience wave effects and higher risks associated with storm surges. Properties located in these zones are often required to carry flood insurance as a condition of mortgages, due to the increased likelihood of flood damage. In contrast, the other zones mentioned, such as B or X zones, C or D zones, and E zones, either represent lower-risk areas or are not formally recognized flood risk designations in the same way that A and V zones are. Thus, the identification of A and V as high-risk flood areas is critical for assessing flood insurance needs and ensuring compliance with local regulations.