Standard homeowners insurance does not typically cover flooding, as that particular risk only exists in coastal regions. For that kind of coverage, floodplain inhabitants need to buy specialized flood insurance. The process is more complicated than selecting a plan, however. In part, coastal homeowners need to obtain a flood elevation certificate to help prove their case. If you reside in a coastal zone but aren’t familiar with these certificates, here’s a brief rundown on what they are and why you need one:

The Basics of Flood Elevation Certificates

What Is a Flood Elevation Certificate?

A flood elevation certificate documents how a building has been improved to fare better in Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA), showing that it’s been elevated to the appropriate height. The certificates were initially developed by FEMA to simplify the process of obtaining flood insurance, and they can be prepared and certified by an authorized building surveyor or community official.

When Would I Need a Certificate?

The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) uses elevation certificates to calculate and rate the appropriate premium for a given building. The NFIP also requires floodplain communities to meet certain requirements meant to reduce flood losses. These important documents help establish that the community has an acceptable management plan. You’ll need a certificate if you live in a floodplain and want a flood insurance quote. This coverage is a wise idea if you have a lot of valuable belongings that you want to protect. 

If you’re trying to obtain a flood insurance quote and live in Baldwin County, AL, get in touch with Raber Surveying and ask about getting a flood elevation certificate. From their Summerdale, AL, office, the local land surveying company has served the local area since 1999, helping mark property boundaries, calculating flood elevations, and preparing for construction projects. Call (251) 975-7525 to schedule a consultation or go online to view their other services.