A flood elevation certificate is a way to determine a property’s elevation. This is essential if you live in any kind of high-risk flood zone in order to obtain a flood insurance policy. That’s because the insurance agent will need this info so they can verify the base flood elevation, which is a determination of where the water will rise to during a base-level flood.
If you’re looking for elevation certificates in Muscogee County, GA, you probably have several questions about the process. Read on to find out how to get this crucial certificate in the best way possible.
How can I obtain an elevation certificate?
Let’s start with the basics. A good first step is to call your local government and see if there’s any elevation information available for the property. If there isn’t, then a licensed surveyor or engineer may need to come out to complete the certificate. If this is the case, you’ll want to shop around to find the business that both has a reasonable price and offers guaranteed accuracy.
Do elevation certificates affect insurance rates?
Yes, they do. How high your property is located above the base flood elevation (BFE) is related to the cost of the flood insurance policy. If you’re significantly above the BFE, your rates are going to be lower than those properties that are more likely to flood.
Again, you’ll want to shop around for rates. Properties that are at least three feet above the BFE have a better shot at finding a good deal on rates. Still, flood insurance is costly and will likely amount to tens of thousands of dollars over the long term.
Who needs an elevation certificate?
Only property owners in high-risk zones need elevation certificates. If your home is in a low to moderate risk zone, then you won’t need one. Talk to your insurance agent to find out for sure whether you need a certificate.
How long do elevation certificates last?
Your elevation certificate does not have an expiration date associated with it. But new elevation certificates do include additional information that old certificates don’t. For a property to be insured, elevation certificates may need to be updated.
When it comes time to obtain elevation certificates in Muscogee County, GA, you want to go with a firm that has a strong reputation in the business. After all, a lot goes into land development before the actual construction begins. Moon, Meeks, Mason & Vinson, Inc. is here to assist you with every step of the process, from engineering to surveying to permits. For decades, we have been regarded among the leading land surveyors and civil engineers in the region.
It doesn’t matter if you’re breaking ground on a new office complex or studying a tract of land for residential development—we’re the right partner to make the process simple and fast. That’s because our approach to civil engineering is a complete one. We assist you in obtaining survey information through the conceptual phase to development. No matter the size, scope or nature of your development, we are ready to help. Call us right now to learn more about how our project-specific experience can be leveraged for your business.