Most people know that the state of Florida is flat and is built upon and surrounded by water. What some don't know is justh how flat it is: the vast majority of land in Florida is at an elevation of less than 150' above sea level, and the highest point in the state is only 345'above.  Flooding is certainly a risk and most homeowner's insurance policies don't cover flood damage or loss. 

Does that mean that homeowners need to buy flood insurance? Possibly, depending upon a home's location and what flood zone it is in according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). If you are purchasing a home in a high-risk flood zone your lender will almost certainly require you to carry a flood insurance policy. Some lenders also require flood insurance for properties in lower-risk areas and many homeowners opt to purchase flood insurance even if it isn't mandated.