Get the free Elevation Certificate

This document is used to provide elevation data required for flood insurance and to determine the proper insurance rates for properties in flood zones.

How to fill out elevation certificate

How to fill out Elevation Certificate

1. Obtain a copy of the Elevation Certificate form from FEMA or your local building office.
2. Fill out the property information section, including the address and the owner's details.
3. Provide details about the building, including its type, the number of stories, and any basement information.
4. Measure the elevation of the lowest floor, including the basement if applicable, and record it on the certificate.
5. Document the elevation of the lowest adjacent grade and the highest adjacent grade.
6. Include information about any flood zones or flood insurance requirements if applicable.
7. Have the certificate completed by a licensed surveyor, engineer, or architect, who will validate the measurements.
8. Submit the completed Elevation Certificate to your local floodplain manager and keep a copy for your records.

Who needs Elevation Certificate?

1. Homeowners in flood-prone areas who need flood insurance.
2. Property owners seeking to comply with local building regulations.
3. Real estate agents and potential buyers to understand property flood risks.
4. Local government agencies for floodplain management and zoning purposes.
5. Lenders requiring the Elevation Certificate for mortgage approval in flood zones.

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 provide information about the elevation of a property in relation to the base flood elevation. It is primarily used in flood zone areas for insurance purposes.

Who is required to file Elevation Certificate?

Property owners in flood-prone areas who are required to purchase flood insurance and those seeking to obtain or renew a flood insurance policy must file an Elevation Certificate.

How to fill out Elevation Certificate?

To fill out an Elevation Certificate, one must gather elevation data of the property, complete the form accurately, and have it certified by a licensed land surveyor, engineer, or architect.

What is the purpose of Elevation Certificate?

The purpose of the Elevation Certificate is to determine the risk of flooding for a specific property and to help establish flood insurance rates.

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, the type of building, the flood zone it is located in, and other pertinent structural details.