The Importance of Floodplain Surveys in Houston
"Texas, often referred to as the Lone Star State, is a thriving hub for economic growth and innovation, making it an attractive destination for commercial real estate investment." - Chris Evans
Why Floodplain Surveys Are Critical for Houston Property Owners
In Houston, Water Shapes the Land—and the Risk
Houston is no stranger to water. With its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico, vast bayou system, and low elevation, large portions of the region fall within FEMA-designated flood zones. For property owners, that means one thing: floodplain surveys aren’t optional—they’re essential.
Whether you’re buying a home, developing land, or refinancing a property in or near a flood-prone area, a floodplain survey is one of the most valuable tools available to protect your investment.
What Is a Floodplain Survey?
A floodplain survey is a type of land survey that:
Measures the elevation of your structure or land in relation to Base Flood Elevation (BFE)
Identifies whether your property is located within a 100-year flood zone as defined by FEMA
Provides data necessary for obtaining flood insurance, permits, and elevation certificates
Supports design and drainage planning for new construction
📌 This data is used to produce an Elevation Certificate—a required document for certain FEMA insurance policies and city permitting processes.
Why Floodplain Surveys Matter in Houston
🌊 They Help Secure Flood Insurance
Properties located in FEMA flood zones are required to carry flood insurance. A floodplain survey helps:
Determine whether you need insurance
Lower insurance premiums with accurate elevation data
Support flood zone removal applications (LOMA/LOMR) when eligible
🏗️ They Are Required for Permits
Most cities, including Houston, require elevation verification before granting permits in flood-prone areas. A floodplain survey ensures your project complies with:
Local drainage ordinances
Minimum finished floor elevations
Stormwater management requirements
🧱 They Help with Site Planning
For builders and developers, a floodplain survey informs:
Foundation type and elevation
Detention/retention pond design
Drainage flow and stormwater containment
Who Needs a Floodplain Survey in the Houston Area?
You may need a floodplain survey if:
You’re purchasing property in a FEMA-designated flood zone
You’re building or expanding a home or commercial building near a bayou, creek, or low-lying area
You’ve been told you need an Elevation Certificate by your insurance company
You’re developing raw land that includes mapped floodplain zones
You’re applying to remove your property from a flood zone through FEMA’s LOMA process
📎 These scenarios are common in areas like Meyerland, Katy, Kingwood, Clear Lake, Pearland, and Galveston.
How Floodplain Surveys Prevent Costly Mistakes
Without a floodplain survey, you risk:
Higher insurance premiums
Permit denials or construction delays
Violating building codes or drainage requirements
Unknowingly buying land that can’t be developed as planned
Facing legal issues after construction in non-compliant zones
In Houston—where a heavy rain can mean feet of water in minutes—these aren’t just hypotheticals. They’re everyday risks.
What a Floodplain Survey Includes
Precise elevation of the lowest floor of existing or planned structures
Vertical measurements tied to NAVD88 elevation datum
Location of the structure relative to Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs)
Drainage flow, ponding areas, and other site-specific water data
Mapping and documentation used for FEMA elevation certificates or LOMA submissions
Counties Where Floodplain Surveys Are Especially Important
📍 Harris County (Houston)
Bayou-based flooding and dense urban development increase risk
Permits often require drainage and elevation approval
📍 Fort Bend & Montgomery Counties
Expanding suburban areas near creeks and retention basins
MUDs and city planning departments require elevation data for new builds
📍 Brazoria, Galveston & Chambers Counties
Coastal influence and hurricane risk make floodplain data essential
FEMA flood zone maps updated frequently—surveys help track changes
Why Choose South Texas Surveying?
With over 40 years serving Houston-area property owners and builders, South Texas Surveying is your trusted resource for fast, accurate floodplain and elevation surveys. We offer:
✔️ Elevation Certificates and LOMA support
✔️ Boundary, topographic, and drainage surveys
✔️ Permit-ready deliverables for builders, engineers, and architects
✔️ Local expertise across Harris, Fort Bend, Montgomery, Brazoria, Galveston, Chambers, Liberty, and Waller counties
📞 Building or buying in a flood zone? Call South Texas Surveying for the floodplain survey you can count on.
Don’t Let Water Catch You Off Guard
A floodplain survey doesn’t just protect your property—it protects your future. Whether you're trying to lower insurance costs or break ground on a new build, the right data will keep your investment safe, compliant, and resilient.
📍 Trust South Texas Surveying to help you navigate Houston’s flood risks with clarity and precision.
