Get the free Elevation Certificate

This document is intended for flood insurance and requires detailed elevation information about a property to determine insurance rates and compliance with local floodplain management regulations.

How to fill out elevation certificate

How to fill out Elevation Certificate

1. Obtain the Elevation Certificate form from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) website or your local floodplain manager.
2. Fill out the property information section, including the address and legal description of the property.
3. Identify the building type (residential or commercial) and the type of ownership.
4. Record the latitude and longitude of the property using a GPS device or online map.
5. Measure the elevation of the building's lowest floor, including the basement if applicable, and record it as instructed.
6. Document the elevation of the lowest adjacent grade and the highest adjacent grade.
7. Provide information about the flood zone designation and the base flood elevation from the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM).
8. Sign and date the certificate and have it completed by a licensed surveyor, engineer, or architect if required.

Who needs Elevation Certificate?

1. Property owners in flood-prone areas who are required to obtain flood insurance.
2. Individuals seeking to build or develop in flood zones.
3. Homeowners looking to determine their risk of flooding and comply with local regulations.

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 confirm a property's elevation relative to the ground level, which is critical for assessing flood risks and determining flood insurance premiums.

Who is required to file Elevation Certificate?

Property owners in flood-prone areas who are required to obtain flood insurance, as well as those looking to prove compliance with local floodplain management regulations.

How to fill out Elevation Certificate?

To fill out an Elevation Certificate, a licensed surveyor must collect specific elevation data of the property, including information about the building's foundation, flood zones, and other pertinent details, and then complete the official form.

What is the purpose of Elevation Certificate?

The purpose of an Elevation Certificate is to provide information that helps determine the proper flood insurance premium, ensure compliance with local flood regulations, and support property owners in understanding their flood risk.

What information must be reported on Elevation Certificate?

The Elevation Certificate must report data such as the building's lowest floor elevation, the location of the site, flood zone designation, and other relevant information that affects flood insurance and management.