ELEVATION CERTIFICATES
The insurance industry has adapted its coverage offerings based on local flood risks. In areas prone to high flood warnings, homeowners may be obligated to pay for specific coverage annually. We can provide a certified FEMA elevation certificate to you or your insurance provider and select an appropriate policy.
An elevation certificate is a document that defines characteristics of your property using Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) guidelines. It works to enforce local building ordinances and define flood insurance rates. The certificate includes the building's location in relation to flood zones, the lowest elevation point — often a basement or crawl space — and special building characteristics like an attached garage. If your home is in one of the Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) flood zones, an elevation certificate may be mandatory.
Why Would I Need an Elevation Certificate?
If your home or business is in a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA), your insurance agent will likely need an Elevation Certificate (EC) to determine your flood insurance premium. Floods mean rising water. Knowing your building’s elevation, compared to the estimated elevation flood waters will reach in a major flood, Base Flood Elevation (BFE), helps determine your actual flood risk and the cost of your flood insurance. The higher your lowest floor is above the BFE, the lower your risk. Lower risk typically means lower flood insurance premiums.
Frequenly Asked Questions
