Short answer: Richmond city's FEMA National Risk Index report ranks local hazards. The Virginia Property Insurance Association is the FAIR Plan for residual property coverage. Keep property maintained and carry Virginia-required auto liability.
This guide is general information for homeowners and drivers in the Richmond area (Richmond city). It isn't legal advice or a coverage determination. Your policy wording, underwriting, city and county ordinances, and state insurance and motor-vehicle rules control. Check your address on FEMA's National Risk Index (county report for Richmond city) and the Flood Map Service Center.
Local hazards: FEMA National Risk Index for Richmond city
Open FEMA's National Risk Index and the Richmond city report.
Federal disaster declarations in Richmond city
Since 1972, Richmond city has been part of 12 federal major disaster declarations, according to FEMA's declarations summaries; by incident type the most common were hurricane events (4), severe storm events (3) and snowstorm events (2). The most recent: Hurricane Florence, 2018, Hurricane Irene, 2011, Tropical Depression Ernesto, Severe Storms and Flooding, 2006 and Severe Storms, Flooding and Tornadoes Associated W Td Gaston, 2004. FEMA also lists 6 emergency declarations for the county in the same data.
Behind the James River floodwall
Richmond's floodwall, finished in 1995, protects about 150 acres of Shockoe Valley north of the James and 600 acres on the south side near Manchester. The city counts 1996 as its last major flood year. In January, snowmelt and heavy rain pushed the James to 22 feet, and seven months later Hurricane Fran's rains raised it to 23.8 feet. The wall's gates are tested once a year.
New maps took effect in July 2025
City Council adopted FEMA's new Flood Insurance Rate Maps on June 2, 2025, and they took effect July 8, 2025. The city warns that some buildings are in a high-risk Special Flood Hazard Area for the first time, which can mean mandatory flood insurance on a federally backed mortgage. Richmond takes part in the NFIP's Community Rating System, so residents get a premium discount. If you were newly mapped in, ask an agent about the cost-saving options for newly mapped properties.
Residual market: Virginia Property Insurance Association
Virginia's FAIR Plan (Virginia Property Insurance Association) provides residual property coverage for qualifying applicants who cannot obtain voluntary-market insurance. Apply through a licensed Virginia producer; confirm current eligibility and forms with the Association / Bureau of Insurance.
Property maintenance
City of Richmond codes address tall grass, weeds and vacant buildings. Clear lots before binding.
More for Richmond policyholders
Bring inspection reports and update receipts when you shop.
Auto: Virginia 50/100/25
For policies effective on or after January 1, 2025, Virginia DMV requires at least 50/100/25.
Questions? Contact Alishahi Insurance or call (877) 711-4545. See insurance in Virginia.
Frequently asked questions
What is Virginia's FAIR Plan called?
The Virginia Property Insurance Association.
Which NRI geography covers Richmond?
Richmond city (FIPS 51760) on FEMA's National Risk Index viewer.
Where do I confirm Virginia auto minimums?
Bureau of Insurance / DMV publications for your policy effective date.
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.