Get the free Elevation Certificate

This document serves as an elevation certification for properties to determine their compliance with flood insurance requirements under the National Flood Insurance Program.

How to fill out elevation certificate

How to fill out Elevation Certificate

1. Obtain a blank Elevation Certificate form from your local floodplain administrator or online.
2. Fill out Section A: Property Information, including the property address, latitude, and longitude.
3. Complete Section B: Flood Zone Information, which may require information about the flood zone designation from FEMA's map.
4. In Section C: Building Information, provide details about the building, such as the construction type and the number of floors.
5. Section D: Elevation Information is crucial; measure the elevation of the lowest floor, including the basement, and record it.
6. If applicable, complete Section E: Additional Elevation Information for any other structures or features.
7. Verify all information for accuracy and completeness.
8. Sign and date the certificate in Section F.
9. Submit the completed Elevation Certificate to your local floodplain administrator.

Who needs Elevation Certificate?

1. Homeowners in flood-prone areas who need to determine their building's elevation for insurance purposes.
2. Property developers when building in designated flood zones.
3. Insurance agents to assist with flood insurance policy underwriting.
4. Mortgage lenders may require it for homes located in Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs).
5. Local governments for zoning and permitting purposes related to floodplain management.

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.

For pdfFiller’s FAQs

What is Elevation Certificate?

An Elevation Certificate is a document used to determine the elevation of a property in relation to the base flood elevation, which is critical for flood insurance purposes.

Who is required to file Elevation Certificate?

Owners of properties located in flood zones, particularly those required to obtain flood insurance, are required to file an Elevation Certificate.

How to fill out Elevation Certificate?

To fill out an Elevation Certificate, one must gather necessary site information, consult with a licensed surveyor to obtain accurate elevation data, and complete the form detailing the elevation measurements and property specifics.

What is the purpose of Elevation Certificate?

The purpose of an Elevation Certificate is to provide insurers and FEMA with information about a property’s elevation, helping to determine flood insurance premiums and whether additional flood mitigation measures are required.

What information must be reported on Elevation Certificate?

The Elevation Certificate must report the property's location, specific elevation data, building characteristics, and any flood zone designations, along with the signature of the licensed surveyor.