What is a Flood Elevation Certificate? 

A flood elevation certificate gives data on a building’s height compared to expected floodwater levels. It’s especially crucial in areas prone to flooding, like floodplains.  

What is the purpose of a Flood Elevation Certificate?  

Determine Flood Risk 

It helps in assessing the risk of flooding to a particular building or structure. During a flood, people compare the height of water to the base flood elevation (BFE). The base flood elevation is the expected height of water during a flood, such as a 100-year flood. 

Insurance Purposes 

Flood insurance purposes often require this certificate for properties in flood-prone areas. It can impact the insurance rates under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Buildings above the BFE have cheaper insurance than those below it. 

Compliance with Building Codes 

It ensures that buildings are compliant with community floodplain management ordinances and building codes. This is particularly important for new constructions or buildings undergoing significant modifications. 

Real Estate Transactions 

An important document in real estate deals, it tells buyers about flood risk and insurance needs for a property. 

Determining the eligibility for flood mitigation grants 

Flood mitigation grants are federal grants awarded to homeowners that homes have repetitively flooded.  The grant helps raise flooded structures above the Base Flood Elevation to prevent future flooding. 

Having a flood elevation certificate is important in flood-prone areas like New Orleans. It helps with managing property, obtaining insurance, and complying with local regulations. Knowing about floods is very important for contractors working on properties in flood-prone areas or developing property in those regions.