Elevation Certificate Questions Raised by Updated Coastal Flood Maps

Aerial view of a coastal property illustrating the setting where an elevation certificate may be used

A new flood map can leave a coastal property owner staring at a flood zone that looks different than it did last year. The elevation certificate sitting in the file suddenly feels shaky. Does it still count? That’s a fair question. The answer isn’t as simple as trading one thing for another. A map update […]

Elevation Certificate Requirements Homeowners Often Encounter Near Tidal Waters

Surveyor measuring an elevated waterfront home near tidal waters for an elevation certificate in a FEMA V flood zone

If you own property near the water, you’ve probably heard the term elevation certificate. But tidal waterfront comes with rules that inland properties never have to think about. Here’s what usually catches homeowners off guard. Why Tidal Flood Zones Use a Different Elevation Certificate Section Than Inland Areas FEMA splits flood zones into two main […]

Floodplain Changes Boost Flood Elevation Certificate Demand

Coastal homes near the shoreline in Maine showing why a flood elevation certificate helps homeowners understand flood risk

Life near the ocean in York, Maine brings great views, fresh air, and easy trips to the beach. However, living close to the coast also means paying attention to flood risk. Recently, work along the southern Maine coast has brought more focus to how shorelines and flood zones can change over time. Because of this, […]