FEMA Flood Certificates

Services: FEMA Flood Certificates

What is a FEMA Flood Certificate?

A FEMA Flood Certificate, commonly known as an Elevation Certificate, provides essential elevation data for structures situated in flood-prone areas as designated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). This certificate documents the exact elevation of your property relative to established floodplain standards, assisting with accurate flood risk assessment and regulatory compliance.

Why Do You Need a FEMA Flood Certificate?

FEMA Flood Certificates are necessary for property owners who wish to undergo site improvements, secure appropriate flood insurance coverage, meet local building codes, and comply with federal floodplain management regulations. Accurate elevation data can significantly influence insurance rates, facilitate property sales, and protect property investments by ensuring adherence to relevant floodplain management standards.

Key Components of a FEMA Flood Certificate

  1. Geodetic Benchmark Verification:

    Surveyors reference precise benchmarks established by local, state, and federal agencies, ensuring accurate vertical datum information for elevation measurements.

  2. Field Survey:

    Comprehensive on-site surveys are conducted to capture precise elevation data of existing structures and surrounding property.

  3. Official Elevation Certificate:

    A Professional Licensed Surveyor certifies the production of a detailed FEMA Elevation Certificate, clearly outlining accurate property elevations, flood zone classification, and other essential data needed for insurance and regulatory compliance.

How to Request a FEMA Flood Certificate from Atlas Surveying

To obtain your FEMA Flood Certificate, please provide the following:

Property address and description of property

Reason for certificate request (e.g., flood insurance requirements, property sale, building permit)

Contact details for authorization and billing purposes

Necessary permissions for property access, if applicable

Why Choose Atlas Surveying for Your FEMA Flood Certificates?

Atlas Surveying combines technical expertise, advanced surveying technology, and extensive local knowledge to deliver highly accurate FEMA Flood Certificates. Our meticulous attention to detail and adherence to rigorous FEMA guidelines ensure reliable documentation with effective communication. Trust Atlas Surveying to provide exceptional service, accuracy, and peace of mind regarding your flood risk management needs.

Contact Atlas Surveying today and let our experienced professionals help you confidently navigate the FEMA Flood Certificate process.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Get the answers you need to move forward with confidence

What is a FEMA Elevation Certificate?

An elevation certificate documents a building’s elevation relative to the base flood elevation for insurance and permitting.

What is a LOMA or LOMR?

LOMA and LOMR are Letters of Map Amendment or Revision used to change flood zone designations.

What is a vertical datum?

There are two primarily used datums, or models, to generate elevations. NGVD 29 was published in 1929, and the most recent is NAVD 88, published in 1988. As more information has been gathered through development in that time span, a new, more accurate model was established. The average difference between the two in the local coastal area is NAVD 88 is 11 inches lower than NGVD 29. Why is this important to know? FEMA is publishes new flood maps overtime as landscapes continually shift due to natural events.

Who is FEMA?

FEMA is the Federal Emergency Management Agency. In this context, they are responsible for designating flood zones and publishing Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) for the public.

Who uses Elevation Certificates? How do I know if I need one?

Insurance companies and permitting agencies require elevation certificates from homeowners to qualify for flood insurance and to obtain building permits. If you are planning to buy or build in/near a flood zone, you will be asked, by one of the authorities aforementioned, to provide an official elevation certificate signed by a Profession Licensed Surveyor.