Short answer: New Jersey's flood risk notification law (P.L. 2023, c.94) requires sellers of real property and landlords to disclose whether a property is in FEMA's Special or Moderate Flood Hazard Area and what they actually know about past flooding. Since March 2024, sellers do it on the property condition disclosure statement before the buyer is bound, and landlords give a written notice before a lease is signed or renewed. NJDEP's online tool lets anyone look up an address.
This guide is general information for New Jersey property owners and renters about flood risk and the National Flood Insurance Program. It isn't a coverage determination. FEMA maps, your community's floodplain ordinance and your policy wording control.
The disclosure law, for buyers and renters
Per the NJDEP Flood Disclosure Law page, the law was enacted July 3, 2023. Beginning March 20, 2024:
- Sellers of real property must disclose, on a property condition disclosure statement and before the purchaser becomes obligated under the contract, whether the property is in FEMA's Special Flood Hazard Area (the 1% annual-chance or "100-year" floodplain) or Moderate Flood Hazard Area (the "500-year" floodplain), plus their actual knowledge of flood risks.
- Landlords must tell prospective tenants whether the rental is in either FEMA area and whether they know of the premises, or tenant parking, having flooded.
Use the DEP's Flood Risk Notification Tool linked from that page to check an address. For background on how New Jersey's coastal zones compare to other Atlantic and Gulf states, see our existing flood zone guide.
Buying the coverage
A disclosure isn't a policy. Most homeowners and renters policies exclude flood, so get an NFIP quote through FloodSmart or ask about private flood. NFIP policies usually take 30 days to take effect, so a buyer shouldn't wait until the week of closing.
Questions? Contact Alishahi Insurance or call (877) 711-4545. See insurance in New Jersey.
Frequently asked questions
Do New Jersey sellers have to disclose flood risk?
Yes. Since March 20, 2024 they must disclose FEMA Special or Moderate Flood Hazard Area status and known flood risks before the buyer is bound.
Do New Jersey landlords have to disclose flooding?
Yes. They must tell tenants about FEMA flood-area status and known flooding of the premises or tenant parking.
How do I check a New Jersey address?
Use NJDEP's Flood Risk Notification Tool, linked from the DEP Flood Disclosure Law page.
Alishahi Insurance · 439 N Canon Dr, Penthouse, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 · (877) 711-4545 · CA License #4348151. General information only. This isn't legal, tax or financial advice or a coverage determination. Coverage depends on policy language and underwriting, and rules vary by state.