Which of the following is a necessary action for properties in federally designated flood zones?

In federally designated flood zones, obtaining flood insurance is a crucial requirement for homeowners and property owners. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) mandates this insurance for properties located in areas identified as high risk for flooding. This mandate is instituted under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), which provides a mechanism for property owners to financially protect themselves against flood damage.

Having flood insurance helps safeguard homeowners against substantial financial losses resulting from potential flooding events, which can lead to extensive repairs and reconstruction costs. Without this insurance, individuals may struggle to recover from flood-related damages, making it essential for those in designated flood zones to secure coverage to mitigate risks associated with flooding.

With regards to the other choices, while regular home inspections, installing flood barriers, and conducting annual surveys may contribute to flood preparedness and property maintenance, they are not federally mandated actions specifically required for properties in flood zones unlike flood insurance, which is a direct requirement under federal guidelines.