A Flood Elevation Survey determines the elevation of a structure relative to the Base Flood Elevation (BFE) shown on FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Maps. Other flood surveys include Letters of Map Amendment (LOMA) and Letter of Map Revisions (LOMR).
If your property is located in or near a flood zone, a flood elevation survey provides the documentation needed to protect your investment and potentially reduce insurance costs.
These measurements are compared to FEMA’s Base Flood Elevation to determine flood risk classification and insurance requirements.
The results are used to complete an official FEMA Elevation Certificate when required.
Accurate elevation data ensures you are not overpaying for flood insurance or facing unexpected compliance issues.
| Survey Type | Primary Purpose | Used For |
| Flood Elevation Survey | Determine building elevation relative to BFE | Insurance, compliance, LOMA requests |
| Boundary Survey | Define legal property lines | Fencing, construction limits |
| Topographic Survey | Map site elevations and contours | Engineering and drainage design |
| ALTA Survey | Commercial transaction compliance | Lender and title requirements |
Below is a simplified representation of how elevation relative to BFE can impact flood insurance risk:
Below BFE → Higher Risk → Higher Premiums
At BFE → Moderate Risk → Standard Premiums
Above BFE → Lower Risk → Potentially Reduced Premiums
Even small elevation differences can significantly affect insurance costs, making accurate measurements critical.
We verify FEMA flood zone designation.
We measure required elevations using survey-grade equipment.
We compare elevations to Base Flood Elevation data.
We prepare and certify the required documentation.
You receive signed documents ready for insurance or regulatory submission.
We work efficiently to meet lender deadlines and insurance renewal timelines.
BFE is the computed elevation to which floodwater is expected to rise during a base flood event, typically the one percent annual chance flood.
No. It is generally required for properties located in certain FEMA-designated flood zones, especially when obtaining flood insurance.
If your building’s lowest floor is above the Base Flood Elevation, you may qualify for reduced insurance rates.
Most residential surveys can be completed quickly, depending on property access and scheduling availability.
Provide your property address and any existing FEMA flood zone information if available.
Flood elevation surveys provide the documentation needed for insurance, compliance, and peace of mind. Accurate measurements can make a meaningful difference in risk assessment and long term cost savings.
