Understanding the Basics of an Elevation Certificate

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Understanding the Basics of an Elevation Certificate

An Elevation Certificate is a document used to provide critical data about a building’s elevation in relation to the Base Flood Elevation (BFE). This document is also known as a Floodplain Development Permit in some states. It is an important document that is used to determine a building’s compliance with the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and to help property owners secure flood insurance.

What Is an Elevation Certificate?

An Elevation Certificate is a document that provides information about a building’s elevation in relation to the Base Flood Elevation (BFE). The BFE is the elevation at which the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) considers a building to be at risk of flooding. The Elevation Certificate provides the elevations of the lowest floor of the building, the lowest adjacent grade, and the lowest horizontal structural member. It also includes information about the building’s flood zone, the community’s participation in the NFIP, and the status of the building’s floodplain management regulations.

Who Needs an Elevation Certificate?

An Elevation Certificate is typically required when a property owner is obtaining flood insurance or when a property owner is selling a building. In some cases, an Elevation Certificate may be required for a building permit. The Elevation Certificate is also sometimes used by engineers and surveyors to determine the design of a building’s foundation.

How Do You Obtain an Elevation Certificate?

An Elevation Certificate can be obtained from a surveyor or engineer who is registered with the local community. The surveyor or engineer will use a survey instrument to measure the elevation of the lowest floor of the building, the lowest adjacent grade, and the lowest horizontal structural member. The surveyor or engineer will then complete the Elevation Certificate and submit it to the local community for review. The local community will review the Elevation Certificate and determine if the building is compliant with the NFIP.

What Happens After the Elevation Certificate Is Submitted?

After the Elevation Certificate is submitted to the local community, the local community will review the document to determine if the building is compliant with the NFIP. If the building is compliant, the local community will issue a Floodplain Development Permit. If the building is not compliant, the local community may require additional information or modifications to the building in order to be compliant with the NFIP.

Conclusion

An Elevation Certificate is an important document that is used to determine a building’s compliance with the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and to help property owners secure flood insurance. An Elevation Certificate can be obtained from a surveyor or engineer who is registered with the local community. After the Elevation Certificate is submitted to the local community, they will review the document to determine if the building is compliant with the NFIP. If the building is compliant, the local community will issue a Floodplain Development Permit.
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