What Is an Elevation Certificate?
An Elevation Certificate is a document that verifies the elevation of a building relative to the Base Flood Elevation (BFE) as determined by FEMA. This certificate is required for proper flood insurance rating and can help property owners secure lower insurance premiums.
The Elevation Certificate provides important information about your property’s flood risk, including the location of the building, lowest floor elevation, building characteristics, and flood zone. Insurance agents use this information to determine flood insurance rates under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).
At Black Mountain Surveying, we’re experienced in completing FEMA Elevation Certificates for properties throughout Arizona. We understand the specific requirements and can provide accurate, properly completed certificates that meet all FEMA standards.
Why Do You Need an Elevation Certificate?
Flood Insurance Requirement
Mortgage lenders typically require flood insurance for properties in high-risk flood zones. An Elevation Certificate is required to purchase flood insurance through the NFIP.
Lower Insurance Premiums
Properties elevated above the BFE may qualify for lower flood insurance rates. An Elevation Certificate documents your elevation and can potentially save you hundreds annually.
FEMA Compliance
For new construction or substantial improvements in flood zones, FEMA requires an Elevation Certificate to verify compliance with elevation requirements.
Property Documentation
The certificate provides permanent documentation of your property’s elevation, useful for future sales, refinancing, or permit applications.
LOMA & Flood Zone Changes
If your property has been incorrectly mapped in a flood zone, we can help. Through a Letter of Map Amendment (LOMA) or Letter of Map Revision (LOMR), you can request that FEMA update your flood zone designation. This process requires accurate elevation documentation showing that your property is naturally above the flood elevation.
Black Mountain Surveying can provide the survey data and documentation needed for LOMA/LOMR applications. Many Arizona property owners have successfully removed their properties from high-risk flood zones, eliminating mandatory flood insurance requirements.
Our Elevation Certificate Process
1. Property Research
We research FEMA flood maps and determine your property’s flood zone classification.
2. Field Survey
We visit your property to measure building elevations using precise GPS equipment.
3. Certificate Prep
We complete the FEMA Elevation Certificate form with all required measurements and information.
4. Delivery
You receive the signed and sealed Elevation Certificate ready for submission to your insurance agent.
Need an Elevation Certificate?
Get a FEMA-compliant Elevation Certificate for your property. We serve all of Arizona with fast turnaround times.
