Some homeowners who've never had to carry flood insurance... may now be required to do so... after FEMA re-zoned some areas using new maps. FEMA says the new digitized flood maps are more accurate, easier to update and what mortgage companies use to make flood insurance conditions for a loan. The new maps go into effect in 9 states this month..requiring some homeowners to purchase flood insurance for the first time...while others are being cleared to drop their policies.

Flood insurance rates differ from state to state...But can cost about 700 to 800 dollars a year.

The new maps go into effect this month in Alabama, Georgia, Illinois, Kansas, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Wisconsin.