Although SmartMLS uses FEMA flood maps on our systems (Connect, Matrix, SmartMLS Tax, etc.), Zillow uses a third party vendor (First Street) to provide climate-related information on their site.
This information cannot be removed from listings on Zillow, but it can be corrected.
How does this climate risk data compare with FEMA flood zones or other local risk assessments, and how should discrepancies be handled?
First Street’s Flood Factor and FEMA flood zones are two independent assessments with different methodologies. Flood Factor assesses a property's 30-year flood risk from rain, rivers, tides, and storm surge, considering climate change. FEMA maps do not account for high-intensity rainfall or future climate changes, and are used to determine insurance and building code requirements. Discrepancies between Flood Factor and FEMA zones can occur due to these differences. If your FEMA zone appears incorrect, providing a Flood Determination Certificate to First Street can help correct the data and ensure accuracy. You can read more about the difference between First Street’s Flood Factor and FEMA flood zones on First Street’s website.
What can I do if I think the information presented isn’t accurate?
If you believe the climate risk data for your listing is incorrect, please submit a request directly to First Street, the climate-risk research firm that provides this data on Zillow. Please note that climate risk data is based on scientific models and may differ from personal experiences or perceptions. Please also note that Zillow’s agreement with First Street does not permit Zillow to alter the data provided by First Street.
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