With all of the advances that have been made in construction and development over the last century, it can seem as though some structures completely defy the constraints of the environment. Nevertheless, builders still have to contend with natural factors when they build. Natural disasters and extreme weather conditions can strike at any time, and builders have to ensure that their structures are resilient enough to withstand the damage and that they are safeguarded against significant loss.
In order to insure yourself against flooding, you must obtain an elevation certificate that provides your insurer with the information they need to be sure that you are eligible for coverage. Elevation certificates in Columbus, GA are very important, and there are several things that you should know about them to ensure that you can successfully complete the process of obtaining one:
- The certification process: The first thing you should do when you begin the process of getting an elevation certificate is to check with your local government to find out whether there is already a certificate on record for your property. This can save you the cost of having your property surveyed and getting a certificate reissued. In order to get a new elevation certificate, you will need the help of a land surveyor. A surveyor will come to your property to evaluate your land and provide you with the information that you need to give to your insurance company.
- Elevation and insurance rates: The elevation of your land in relation to nearby flood zones will likely have a bearing on the cost of your insurance. In general, the lower the elevation of your construction, the more you will have to pay for flood insurance. Many builders can save a significant amount on insurance by moving their construction to a spot with a slightly higher elevation—sometimes, even a few feet can make a big difference!
- Low-risk zones: In most cases, elevation certificates in Columbus, GA are only necessary if you are in a zone with a high risk of flooding. For people in lower to moderate risk zones, a certificate may not be necessary at all. These rules can vary widely between different areas, so make sure to check with your insurance company to find out what the requirements are for your specific location.
- Next steps: Once you’ve gotten your elevation certificate, make a copy for your insurance company. It’s a good idea to keep a copy for your own records as well. If you already have an elevation certificate, you may need to find out whether there are any additional pieces of information that are necessary—especially if you have an older certificate. If additional information is needed, you will need to seek help from a surveyor.
For all of your civil engineering needs, including obtaining elevation certificates in Columbus, GA, reach out to the experts at Moon, Meeks, Mason & Vinson, Inc. We have been delivering exceptional civil engineering services to our clients for over 70 years, and we would be happy to assist you with your project.