FEMA has released draft versions of its updated flood maps for portions of the Greater Houston area, marking an important step forward after several years of delays. These drafts begin a multi-stage public review process, with more consumer-friendly viewing tools expected in the coming months.
To support you and your clients, HAR has assembled flood maps and related resources in one convenient location at HAR.com/flood.
As these updates receive public and media attention, this is a valuable opportunity for REALTORS® to lead with knowledge and context. Flood risk is multifaceted, and no single tool provides a complete assessment. Buyers and sellers benefit most when they review multiple sources, ask informed questions and work closely with a REALTOR®. Your expertise and guidance continue to be essential.
We also want to clarify a few key points for consistency and confidence in your client conversations:
- No flood-related information has been removed from the public-facing side of HAR.com.
- Flood resources remain available to everyone at HAR.com/flood, including direct links to FEMA and other sources.
- Buyers Aware flood risk scores estimate risk to the property, not the individual structure.
As previously shared with members, HAR decided in June 2025 not to move forward with displaying Buyers Aware data on HAR.com listings after reviewing member feedback. Concerns centered on methodology limitations, including that the model:
- Evaluates the property rather than the structure itself
- Does not account for elevation or construction characteristics
- Does not incorporate key due diligence sources such as Seller’s Disclosure Notice, property surveys or FEMA map positioning analysis
HAR will continue working proactively with our media and community partners to ensure accurate information is shared with the public and that the role of the REALTOR® remains clear and valued.
Thank you for your continued professionalism, your service to consumers and your commitment to the Houston Association of REALTORS®.
