Get the free Elevation Certificate

This document is used to provide elevation information for buildings to support flood insurance applications and other floodplain management purposes.

How to fill out elevation certificate

How to fill out Elevation Certificate

1. Obtain a copy of the Elevation Certificate form from your local floodplain manager or online.
2. Fill in the section for property information, including the address and the description of the building.
3. Enter the elevation of the building's lowest floor, including the basement if applicable.
4. Provide the elevation of the highest adjacent grade next to the building.
5. Include information about the flood zone designation if required.
6. Complete the section regarding the certificate's purpose and the measurement methods used.
7. Have a licensed surveyor, engineer, or architect sign and seal the certificate.

Who needs Elevation Certificate?

1. Property owners in flood-prone areas who are required to obtain flood insurance.
2. Individuals looking to build in designated flood zones.
3. Real estate professionals involved in transactions of properties in flood areas.
4. Insurance companies that require elevation data for underwriting flood insurance.
5. Local governments managing floodplain development and compliance.

People Also Ask about

Will an elevation certificate lower my flood insurance?

If property owners provide an EC with more detailed FFH and elevation information, the flood insurance rating engine may return a lower annual premium. FEMA's system compares the original elevation data with the updated information to deliver a more property-specific and equitable rate for the policyholder.

How do I get a free elevation certificate?

How do I get an elevation certificate? Start by contacting your local floodplain manager. They often work for your city's or county's building, permitting, engineering or land use department. Ask them if there is an elevation certificate on file for your property.

What is included in an elevation certificate?

The EC lists a building's location, lowest point of elevation, flood zone, and other characteristics. Under NFIP's pricing approach, an EC is no longer required to purchase coverage.

What is a BFE certificate?

Base flood elevation (BFE) is a value determined by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) that helps identify the flood risk in a certain area. By extension, it also determines the risk a particular structure has of flooding if the water level rises.

Will an elevation certificate lower my flood insurance?

If property owners provide an EC with more detailed FFH and elevation information, the flood insurance rating engine may return a lower annual premium. FEMA's system compares the original elevation data with the updated information to deliver a more property-specific and equitable rate for the policyholder.

For pdfFiller’s FAQs

What is Elevation Certificate?

An Elevation Certificate is a document that provides information about the elevation of a property in relation to flood zones, used primarily to determine flood insurance rates.

Who is required to file Elevation Certificate?

Property owners in areas identified as flood zones by FEMA are typically required to file an Elevation Certificate when obtaining or renewing flood insurance.

How to fill out Elevation Certificate?

To fill out an Elevation Certificate, you need to provide information regarding the property address, the type of building, and detailed elevation data, often requiring the expertise of a licensed surveyor.

What is the purpose of Elevation Certificate?

The purpose of an Elevation Certificate is to help determine flood insurance premiums and to ensure compliance with local floodplain management regulations.

What information must be reported on Elevation Certificate?

The Elevation Certificate must report information such as the building's elevation in relation to the Base Flood Elevation (BFE), structural details, and any flood zone designations.