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What is an Elevation Certificate and When is it Required?
An elevation certificate is a document that verifies the elevation of a building or structure relative to the base flood elevation in a designated floodplain. The certificate can be used to certify that a structure meets the requirements of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for flood insurance purposes. In addition, elevation certificates are often used to demonstrate compliance with local building codes.
Why is an Elevation Certificate Required?
An elevation certificate is required for any structure that is located in a floodplain. The document is used to determine the flood insurance rate for a structure, as well as to ensure that the structure is built to the standards set by FEMA. Elevation certificates are also used to verify that a structure meets the requirements of local building codes, which can help reduce liabilities associated with potential damage caused by flooding.
What Information Does an Elevation Certificate Include?
An elevation certificate typically includes detailed information about the structure, including its address, the elevation of the lowest floor, the elevation of the highest adjacent grade, and the elevation of the building’s foundation. The document also includes information about the floodplain and the base flood elevation for the area.
Who Can Issue an Elevation Certificate?
An elevation certificate is typically issued by a licensed surveyor, engineer, or architect. These professionals are trained to accurately measure the elevation and other characteristics of a structure and to provide this information in a detailed report.
When is an Elevation Certificate Required?
An elevation certificate is typically required when a structure is located in a designated floodplain. The certificate is also required when applying for flood insurance or when making changes to an existing structure. Additionally, some local jurisdictions may require an elevation certificate when issuing a building permit.
Conclusion
An elevation certificate is an important document that verifies the elevation of a structure relative to the base flood elevation in a designated floodplain. The certificate is typically required when a structure is located in a floodplain, when applying for flood insurance, or when making changes to an existing structure. Elevation certificates are usually issued by a licensed surveyor, engineer, or architect.
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