CFM Exam
Unit 1: What is the NFIP's definition of "floodplain management"?
A decision making process to aims to achieve the wise use of nature's floodplains.
Unit 7: What legal resources do you and your attorney have to bring a violation into compliance?
A fine (that can increase for each day the violation continues) Recording the violation in the property's deed records. A court injunction to stop work.
Unit 5: What's the NFIP definition for "basement"?
"Basement" means any area of the building have its floor subgrade on all sides.
Unit 8: What factors are considered determining market value?
"The price a willing buyer and seller agree upon." Factors to consider are building's original quality, subsequent improvements, age and current condition.
Unit 9: What is the maximum amount of contents coverage I can get for a single family dwelling?
$100,000
Unit 10: What are the six basic strategies of flood hazard mitigation measures?
(1) Prevention (2) Property Protection (3) Natural Resource Protection (4) Emergency Services (5) Structural Projects (6) Public Information
Unit 8: A home was built to post-FIRM standards in 1990. The lowest floor was elevated four feet above grade, to the BFE in effect at that time. In 1995, a new FIRM went into effect. The new BFE is now six feet above grade at that site. (A) How would a small (less than substantial) addition have to be elevated? (B) How high would a large (substantial) addition have to be elevated?
(A) To at least four feet above grade. (B) To at least six feet above grade.
Unit 2: What are the sanctions if a community is suspended from the NFIP?
-Flood insurance will not be available. No resident will be able to purchase a flood insurance policy through the NFIP. - Existing flood insurance policies will not be renewed. - No Federal grants or loans for development may be identified in SFHA areas. - No Federal Disaster assistance may be proved. in identified SFHA areas. - No Federal mortgage insurance or loan guarantees in SFHA areas. - Federally insured or regulated lending institutions (banks) must notify applicants seeking loans.
Unit 3: The base flood is a flood that has a ______ of occurring in any year
1% chance
Unit 4: Mrs. Murphy says she has a survey that shows that her house is higher than the flood level. What type of map change should she request? Additionally, which locations on her property will Mrs. Murphy need elevation data?
1. A Letter of Map Amendment (LOMA) is the appropriate way to remove a single lot from the SFHA based on elevation data. 2. The elevation of the lowest grade adjacent to building.
Unit 4: What are the four types of map changes?
1. A restudy. 2. A limited map maintenance project. 3. An amendment is used to remove an area inadvertently included in the SFHA. 4. A map revisions is used for all other cases.
Unit 1: What are the NFIP's (4) Floodplain Management strategies?
1. Modifying human susceptibility. 2. Modify impacts of flooding. 3. Modify flooding. 4. Preserving/Restoring Natural Resources.
Unit 3: The most hazard part of the coastal floodplain is the ____ ____ ____ area, which is shown on the map as a ____ zone
Coastal High Hazard, V Zone
Unit 2: List two things your community committed itself to when it joined the NFIP?
1. Issuing or denying floodplain development/building permits. 2. Inspecting development compliance. 3. Maintaining records of floodplain development. 4. Assisting in the preparation and revision of floodplain maps. 5. Helping residents obtain information on flood hazards.
Unit 2: What are the sanctions if a community does not participate in the NFIP?
1. No flood insurance. 2. Existing flood insurance policies will not be removed. 3. No federal grants or loans for development in the SFHA. 4. No federal disaster relief to repair insurable buildings in the SFHA from damage due to flood. 5. No federal mortgage insurance or loan guarantees may be provided in the SFHA.
Unit 1: What are two primary goals of floodplain management?
1. Reducing the loss of life. 2. Preserving and Restoring natural resources.
Unit 9: What are some of the benefits of joining the Community Rating System?
1. Residents get reduced flood insurance premiums. 2. The community's flood program receives recognition from a national evaluation program. 3. Technical assistance in designing and implementing some activities is available at no charge from ISO. 4. It encourages the community to maintain its program during times of diminished interest in flood issues.
Unit 2: What are the objectives of the NFIP?
1. Transferring costs of private property flood losses from tax payers to floodplain property owners through insurance premiums. 2. Guiding development away from SFHA. 3. Provide residents with financial aid after floods. 4. Require that new or substantially improved building be constructed in ways to minimize floods.
Unit 5: A farmer wants to build a dairy barn in the floodway. Will he need to provide you with a "no-rise" certification before you can issue the permit? The same farmer wants to build a small addition onto his farmhouse (also in the floodway). Can this be designed so he won't have to pay for an engineer's encroachment review?
1. Yes 2. Yes, if it is located in the conveyance shadow of the farmhouse.
Unit 5: An encroachment review should review projects in a floodway for what two things?
1. You must determine whether the project will obstruct flood flows and cause an increase in flood heights. 2. You should determine whether project will increase downstream flooding by removing an existing obstruction.
The base flood is also called the ____ - year flood.
100
Unit 2: How many communities participate in the NFIP?
19,000
Unit 1: Standing water as little as ____ feet deep can collapse the walls of a framed house.
3
Unit 5: Will a developer in an approximate A Zone have to prepare a detailed study to calculate base flood elevations if the development is: 4 acres? 60 lots? Or Reserving all the SFHA as open space?
4 Acres - NO 60 Lots - YES Reserving all the SFHA as open space - NO
Unit 5: In what part of the Code of Federal Regulation would you find the definition for "development."?
44 CFR 59.1 Definitions
Unit 5: Where do I find the NFIP requirements for areas mapped with V Zones?
44 CFR 60.3 (e)
Unit 5: Most of the requirements relative to your community's ordinance are in 44 CFR ____ and _____
59 and 60
Unit 2: How long does it take a community to adopt a new FIRM?
6 Months
Unit 5: Which part of 44 CFR 60.3 covers the requirements for areas with a FIRM but no base flood elevations?
60.3(B)
Unit 4: A builder wants to get a bank loan to develop an area. His plans are to fill some low spots and get all the building sites out of the floodplain. His banker will not grant a loan for the project unless she is reassured that the FIRM will be changed when the project is finished. What type of map change should the builder request?
A Conditional Letter of Map Revision based on fill (CLOMR-F)
Unit 5: What's the best record to keep to be sure that a house was elevated high enough?
A FEMA Elevation Certificate. Any surveyor's or engineer's record of elevation of the lowest floor meets the NFIP requirements, but the FEMA form is recommended.
Unit 7: If a project meets all of the ordinance requirements and is built according to the approved plans, what the does the owner get after the final inspection?
A certificate of occupancy, certificate of compliance, use permit or other official document that allows the building to be occupied or used.
Unit 3: What causes storm surge?
A change in air pressure and wind against the shore.
Unit 2: How is a flood defined by the NFIP?
A general and temporary condition of partial or complete inundation of normally dry land areas from overflow of inland or tidal waters or from the unusual and rapid accumulation of runoff or surface waters from any source."
Unit 2: What is a community?
A governmental body with the statutory to enact and enforce development regulations.
How many flood openings are required?
A minimum of two flood openings in at least two walls have a total net area of no less than one square inch for every square foot of enclosed area subject to flooding shall be provided.
Unit 3: The SFHA is shown on a FIRM as a Zone that begins with the letter ____ or _____
A or V
Unit 5: What is "Basic Rule #2"?
A permit is required for all development in the SFHA.
Unit 2: When a community applies to join the NFIP, what must they submit?
A resolution of intent to maintain adequate land use/control measures in cooperation with FEMA and their own floodplain ordinance.
Unit 5: If a building is proposed to be located in a riverine floodplain with flood velocities of 8-10 second, what should you ask the builder to provide to assure you that the building won't get washed away during a flood?
A statement from an architect or engineer that the design of the building includes "anchoring adequate to prevent flotation, collapse, and lateral movement" during the base flood. These are hazardous velocities and you should discourage development in these areas.
Unit 7: If a project is found underway in the floodplain, what is the first step you should take?
Advise the owner to stop work and tell him or her (in writing) that the project is in violation and what should be done to correct it.
Unit 7: When should you make the second inspection for a building to be elevated on a crawlspace or columns?
After the foundation is completed, so you can check if it is high enough before the lowest floor is built.
Unit 7: When is the best time to make the first site inspection?
After the site is staked out and before permanent foundation work has begun.
Unit 10: What's a good definition of "flood hazard mitigation"
All actions that can be taken to reduce property damage and the threat to life and public health from flooding
Unit 3: What communities' floodplains are shown on a countywide FIRM?
All communities even nonparticipating ones.
Unit 7: What five items need to be checked to ensure an application for a permit is complete?
All forms are completed and signed. Site, grading, buildings, plans are complete. All necessary certifications are provided. All necessary state and federal permits are obtained. Copies of the application are forwarded to other departments for review.
Unit 5: If a community has a FIRM that shows floodways and V zones, which parts of 44 CFR 60.3 must it abide by?
All parts up through 60.3(e)
Unit 5: What is "Basic Rule #1" for using maps and data?
Always use the most recent maps and flood data published by FEMA
Unit 9: Mrs. Murphy's Chowder House was built at the east end of Vassar Road in 1994. The restaurant got flooded last month. Which of the following can help Mrs. Murphy rebuild her damaged restaurant?
An NFIP flood insurance policy. A FEMA disaster assistance grant. A Small Business Administration disaster loan. None of these programs are available because the building was built in a CBRS area 4 years after it was designated as such.
Unit 6: What is freeboard?
An additional height requirement above the base flood elevations that provides a margin of safety against extraordinary or unknown risks
Unit 1: What is a watershed?
An area that drains into a lake, stream, or other body of water.
Unit 8: What are three good sources for obtaining the market value of a house?
An independent appraisal by a professional appraiser. Detailed estimates of the structure's actual cash value (the replace cost for a building, minus a depreciation percentage based on age and condition." Property appraisals used for tax assessment purposes with an adjustment recommended by the tax appraiser to reflect market conditions. The value of buildings taken from NFIP claims data (usually actual cash value.) Qualified estimates based on sound professional judgement made by the staff of the local building department.
Unit 9: What is a CBRS Zone?
An undeveloped coastal barrier (barrier island, sand spit, or similar land form) that is designated as part of the Coastal Barrier Resources System.
Unit 3: What is an AO Zone?
Any area subject to sheetflow, ponding, or shallow flooding
Unit 5: Define "development" as the term is used in your ordinance.
Any man-made change to improved or unimproved real estate including but not limited to: filling, dredging, mining, grading, paving, excavation, or drilling or storage of materials.
Unit 10: What are the three categories of building condition that are determined during the building condition survey?
Apparently Safe: No exterior signs of structural damage. People can be allowed back in. Building obviously substantially damaged: flood swept building away, collapsed, or is missing walls. The building cannot be reoccupied. Could be substantially damaged: The building may be substantially damaged, but such damage is not obvious.
Flood Mitigation Assistance Program (FMA)
Applies to NFIP insured structures. Planning grants support risk assessment and development of mitigation plans. Project grant implement elevation, demolition, relocation or acquisition activities. Technical assistance grants to develop FMA applications.
What is a state's role in the NFIP?
Appoint the state NFIP coordinator. Empower communities with authority to manage development. Adopt minimum (or higher) NFIP standards. Support mapping.
Unit 3: Flood studies that do not identify BFEs are called ____
Approximate Studies
Unit 10: Once you advise an owner that a permit may be necessary, do you need to inspect the building or can you save time and wait for a permit application?
As soon as possible after the notice is delivered, your office should inspect each flooded property to review needed repairs and determine if a permit is needed.
Unit 5: A new house is planned to be built in an SFHA marked "Zone AO (depth 3 feet)." How high should the lowest floor be?
At least 3 feet above the higher adjacent grade
Unit 5: Where is the lowest floor measured in a V Zone?
At the bottom of the lowest horizontal structural member.
Unit 4: A vacant lot near Site D was recently purchased. The new owners ask for your help in locating the best spot to build a new house. The FIRM shows the entire property in the SFHA. You are handy with a transit, so you survey the proposed building during a visit to the property. You find that the building site is above BFE. The owners want you to inform their bank so they won't have to buy flood insurance. What do you say?
Banks must go by the map. They cannot make on-site interpretations based on data other than the FIRM. However, they may recommend that the property owner submit a request for a letter of revision or map amendment.
Unit 3: BFE is an acronym for ____ ______ ______
Base flood elevation
Unit 2: What types of governmental bodies are considered to be "communities" by the NFIP?
Cities, towns, villages, townships, counties, or states with the statutory authority to enact and enforce regulation.
Unit 10: What type of work may not need a permit after a flood?
Cleanup and temporary emergency repairs.
Unit 1: What are (5) types of Special Flood Hazards?
Closed basin lakes, uncertain flow paths, dam breaks, ice jams, and mud flows.
Unit 3: CBRA stands for...
Coastal Barrier Resources Act
Unit 5: What three things do you need to check for to ensure that a building is floodproofed?
Below the BFE: Walls are watertight (substantially impermeable), structural components can resist hydrostatic and hydrodynamic loads, and utilities are protected from flood damage.
Unit 1: What does accrete mean?
Build up of deposited sand, either by nature or human actions.
Unit 9: What are the two types of flood insurance coverage available?
Building and contents coverage.
Unit 2: What is a pre-FIRM building?.
Building constructed before their community map was adopted.
Unit 10: The Building condition survey identifies three categories of building condition. Which two need permits?
Building obviously substantially damaged: the flood swept the building away, it has collapsed or it is missing one or more walls. The building cannot be reoccupied without major structural work. Building could be substantially damaged: The building may be substantially damaged but such damage is not obvious.
Unit 2: What can FEMA do to encourage a community to adequately enforce its floodplain management regulations?
CRS Reclassification #10, community can be suspended, or the community can be put on probation.
Increased Cost of Compliance (ICC)
Can be applied to Floodproofing, Relocation, Elevation, and Demolition (FRED). Covers only damaged caused by a flood. Capped at $30K.
Unit 1: What are three examples of materials that are susceptible to flood damage?
Carpet, wood, books, appliances, electrical systems, and car engines.
Unit 5: What publication has the NFIP requirements for communities?
Chapter 44 of the Code of Federal Regulations
Unit 5: Where can you find standards for tying down manufactured homes?
Check first to see if there are state regulations. If not, see FEMA's Manufactured Home Installation in Flood Hazard Areas.
Unit 8: If Mr. Jones' project will be a substantial improvement, what do you need to check to see if the whole house has to be elevated or just the addition?
Check the extent of work on the common wall and the existing building. If the common wall is demolished as part of the project, the existing building and the addition must be elevated.
Unit 5: Site E is in the approximate A Zone of Dean Lake. A developer wants to build a small commercial building on a 3 acre site. Where do you get a base flood elevation?
Check with the local NFIP coordinator, town engineer or developer's engineer, or use flood of record.
Unit 1: What are the three types of flooding?
Coastal, Riverine, and Shallow flooding.
Unit 6: What NFIP program recognizes local regulatory standards that are more restrictive than the minimum NFIP regulations?
Community Rating System (CRS)
Unit 2: Who uses NFIP maps?
Community, Insurance agents (to find FIRM zones for insurance rating) and Mortgage lenders (condition of a loan or assistance)
Unit 8: What is the substantial improvement formula?
Cost of Improvement Project / Market Value of Buildings > 50 Percent
Unit 8: What is the formula for determining substantial damage?
Cost to Repair / Market Value of Building > 50 Percent
Unit 3: Flood profiles are developed by plotting the flood elevation at the _____ _____ and connecting the plotted points.
Cross Sections.
Unit 3: Surveyors reference elevation to a common _____
Datum
Unit 9: Which of the following programs is likely to require a flood insurance policy as a condition of financial assistance? Department of Veterans Affairs Mortgage Loan Guarantees? HUD Community Development Block Grants? Federal Disaster Assistance? Home Improvement loans from a bank participating in the FDIC? Mortgage from a federal credit union?
Department of Veterans Affairs Mortgage Loan Guarantees? YES HUD Community Development Block Grants? YES Federal Disaster Assistance? YES Home Improvement loans from a bank participating in the FDIC? YES Mortgage from a federal credit union? YES
Unit 3: Instead of using a base flood elevation, some shallow flooding areas are defined used a base flood ____
Depth
Unit 1: What are two problems with floodplain development?
Development alters the floodplain and periodic flooding can damage structures.
Unit 5: What is "Basic Rule #3" as it related to encroachments in riverine floodplains?
Development must not increase the flood hazard on other properties.
Unit 3: The rate at which runoff flows downstream is called the flood ______
Discharge.
Unit 5: What's the best way to deal with sand dunes?
Don't touch them. They provide important flood protection by breaking waves during coastal storms.
Unit 7: When is the best time to see if a crawlspace has adequate openings?
During the second inspection, before the floor is built. This will allow the builder to install the needed openings with a minimum of disruption to the structure.
Unit 7: During the second inspection, you find that the builder wants to build the lowest floor three feet below the BFE in order to save on construction costs. What repercussions would the owner face if the community issued a certificate of occupancy for the building and did not pursue any enforcement action?
Even though the certificate of occupancy says the owner had a "legal" building, the flood insurance rates would be based on the elevation of the lowest floor. The annual insurance premium would be very high. A few years of such premiums would likely be more expensive than the extra cost of meeting the ordinance's elevation requirement.
Unit 6: What is "stormwater management"?
Efforts that reduce the impact of increased runoff that results from new development in the watershed.
Unit 7: What are four situations when a record of an engineer's or surveyor's certification is needed?
Elevation certificate: needed for new or substantially improved buildings that are elevated in the SFHA. Floodproofing certificate: needed for new or substantially improved non-residential buildings that are floodproofed. V Zone Certification - Needed for new or substantially improved buildings in V Zones. No-Rise Certification- Needed for developmental projects in floodways (or its equivalent in riverine floodplains where the floodway has not been mapped)
Which Diagram for Attached Garage on Elevation Certificate?
Elevation for top of attached garage is self-explanatory, attached garages are not illustrated in the diagrams.
Unit 3: To locate the true elevations at a site, surveyors have established _____ ______ marks also known as ______ marks
Elevation reference, bench
Unit 3: A hydraulic study uses the hydrology, cross-section information, and stream characteristics to determine the flood ____
Elevations (also velocities or floodplain widths)
Unit 10: Who is responsible for disaster and emergency response activities in your community?
Emergency Manager
What is an elevation certificate used for?
Ensure compliance with floodplain management ordinances. Determine the proper insurance rate. Support a request for a LOMA or LOMR-F
Unit 10: What are some benefits of preparing a mitigation plan?
Ensure that all possible activities are reviewed and implemented. Link floodplain management policies to specific activities. Build public and political support.
Unit 7: What should you check for during the third inspection?
Ensure that the foundation and floor elevation have not been altered since the second inspection. Obtain an as-built elevation or floodproofing certificate. Ensure that nothing subject to flood damage, such as a furnace or air conditioning unit has been located below the lowest floor. Check breakaway walls in V Zones. Check for floodway encroachment. Check the anchoring system in securing manufactured homes.
Unit 9: Who sets the rates and coverage rules for flood insurance policies, FEMA or private insurance companies?
FEMA
Unit 2: Which FEMA office works directly with communities?
FEMA's 10 Regional offices.
Unit 2: What are the two maps that FEMA has issued?
FIRM and Flood Hazard Boundary Map.
Unit 9: What are two key factors in rating Post-FIRM buildings?
FIRM zone and the lowest floor's elevation in relation to the BFE.
Unit 3: What are the components of a Flood Insurance Study?
FIRM, Flood Insurance Study report, and Flood Boundary and Floodway Map.
Unit 8: The substantial damage regulation only apply if the building was damaged by a flood. True or False?
False, the damage can be from any cause.
Unit 2: True or False. Insurance companies set flood insurance rates and coverage rules
False. Federal Insurance Administration sets them.
Unit 2: What happened in 1979?
Federal Insurance Administration and NFIP created FEMA.
Unit 10: If a flood is bad enough to result in a Presidential disaster declaration, why should my city need flood insurance policies on the buildings it owns in the floodplain?
Federal disaster assistance for a flooded public building will be reduced by the amount of flood insurance coverage should have on the building.
Unit 1: Which type of flooding accounts for the most flood related deaths?
Flash Flooding
Unit 6: What's the advantage of requiring dry land access if buildings are protected from flooding?
It protects people by allowing them to evacuate when floodwaters come up and allows emergency service vehicles to protect the properties during a flood.
Unit 3: List 3 things that a FIRM is used to determine.
Flood Insurance rating zone, base flood elevation, and if a property is located in a floodplain
Unit 3: Flood profiles are used to determine what?
Flood elevations along a stream or river between cross sections.
Unit 3: An approximate study shows the base ____ but not the base flood ______
Floodplain; elevation
Unit 3: As directed by the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968, FEMA conducts flood studies in order to determine_____ and _______
Floodprone areas and flood risk areas
Unit 7: Permit records should be kept systematically. Your system should be keyed so you can retrieve permit files by:
Geographical identifier, such as street address.
Unit 3: The ________ is defined as the stream channel and that portion of the adjacent floodplain that must remain open to permit passage of the base flood.
Floodway
In riverine situations, the floodplain is divided into two separate parts for floodplain management purposes. These parts are the ____ and the _____.
Floodway and flood fringe
Unit 3: Cross sections are shown on which map?
Floodway and new format FIRM
Unit 7: What are the four situations where a certification will be needed before a floodplain development permit can be issued?
Floodway encroachment analysis. Engineer's certification of floodproofing design. Non-conversion agreement for enclosed lower areas. V Zone Design Cert.
Unit 3: The new format FIRMS include:
Floodways and Floodplain management information; simplified flood insurance zones.
Unit 8: A flooded property owner has a brother who is a plumbing contractor. His brother's repair estimate shows the damage at 48% of the building's vale. You think it should be higher. What can you do to prevent an argument over the numbers.
Get the cost to repair from an objective third party or undebatable source such as: a licensed contractor, a professional construction estimator, insurance adjustment papers, or damage assessment field surveys conducted by building inspection.
What is wet floodproofing?
It's a method to reduce damage that involves three elements: allowing floodwaters to enter and exit with minimal damage, using flood damage resistant materials, and elevating utility/mechanical equipment.
Severe Repetitive Loss Program (SRL)
Grant program for residential properties with severe repeat loss history: (a) 4 or more claims that each exceed $5,000 with at least two in a ten year period, (b) 2 or more claims that cumulatively exceed the value of the building. States receive funding annually based upon the number of SRLs; Usually 75% Federal funding. Non-Federal share can be adjusted to 10% if state has FEMA approve mitigation plan with strategy to address SRL properties. Eligible projects include: elevation, relocation, demolition, floodproofing historical properties, demolition / rebuild to BFE.
Unit 5: What does the permit official do to be sure that a V Zone building will be adequate to resist the wind and water loads?
Have an engineer certify that the design and planned methods of construction are in accordance with accepted standards of practice to resist flotation, collapse, or lateral movements.
Unit 7: What are your two options for making sure a new building is high enough before you allow construction to proceed after the second inspection?
Have the builder provide an Elevation Certificate. Check the elevation yourself during the second inspection.
Unit 7: You deny an application to build a house in the floodplain because the plans show a proposed basement 6' below the BFE. What recourses does the applicant have now?
He can drop the idea and withdraw the application. He can redesign the house so the lowest floor (including basement) is above the required flood level. He can appeal to the Board of Appeals if he thinks you misread or misinterpreted the requirements. He can apply for a variance to allow the basement.
Unit 5: In a riverine AE zone with a base flood elevation, what must a developer show in order to demonstrate that he is meeting Base Rule #3?
He must conduct an encroachment review that demonstrates that the cumulative effect of the proposed development will not increase water surface elevation more than a foot and is consistent with the technical criteria contained in Chapter 5 Hydraulic Analysis.
Unit 8: Mrs. McGill is on a fixed income. Her home was flooded and substantially damaged. Her flood insurance policy will pay for the repairs. When told that she will also have to elevate her house, she thinks she should apply for a variance due to financial hardship. What do you tell her?
Her flood insurance policy has increased Cost of Compliance coverage that will help pay for the cost of meeting the ordinance's requirement to elevate. Your office may be able to help find financial assistance to pay for the rest of the cost.
Unit 6: Name two types of floodprone areas where many communities prohibit development.
High hazard areas, such as flash flood areas and very deep floodways. Natural or sensitive areas such as wetlands.
Unit 1: What areas are conducive to flash flooding?.
Hilly areas with narrow valleys, and urban areas with impervious surfaces.
Unit 7: Name two situations where special exceptions may be granted for a variance.
Historic buildings and functionally dependent uses.
Unit 1: What are five main causes of flood-related damage?
Hydrodynamic and Hydrostatic forces, soaking, debris impact, and sediment and contaminants.
Unit 3: ____ is the study of a watershed's behavior during and after a storm.
Hydrology
Unit 3: For purposes of a riverine flood study, _____ is the study of the distribution and circulation of water in the environment, and _____ is the study if fluids in motion and how water will flow through the channel.
Hydrology and Hydraulics.
Unit 8: What is the basic rule on improvements and repairs to existing buildings in the floodplain?
If the cost of improvements or the cost to repair the damage exceeds 50 percent of the market value of the building, it must be brought up to current floodplain management standards.
Unit 10: When you inspect a flooded building to determine if the structure is substantially damaged, which of the following items should you check?
Walls, Ceilings, Foundation, Duct Work, Water Heater, and Kitchen Cabinets.
Unit 5: Where would elevation on piles or columns be preferred?
In areas where flooding is likely to have high velocities or waves.
Unit 1: What does filling in a floodplain do?
Inability to store excess water downstream and can increase floods to rise to higher levels.
Unit 6: How could a developer of an 80-acre subdivision reduce the amount of runoff that leaves the property during a storm?
Include stormwater detention or retention basins to hold or relay the runoff from the site.
Unit 7: How can Section 1316 help a local permit official faced with a subdivider who reuses to build houses in compliance with the floodplain regulations?
It authorizes FEMA to deny flood insurance to a property declared in violation of the community's ordinance. Among other things, this will prevent the property from receiving any federal grants and loans may limit mortgages from federally regulated or insured lending institutions.
Unit 1: What is one problem with construction seawalls to protect buildings from flooding or erosion?
It can accelerate flooding on properties at the end of the wall.
Unit 7: What are the advantages of using the FEMA Elevation Certificate as a record of a building's lowest floor elevation?
It includes all the data needed for NFIP compliance. It meets the requirements of the CRS. It is needed by insurance agents to write a polcy.
Unit 8: Mrs. Murphy bought her property for $100,000 last year. Is this a good basis for determining its market value?
It's a start, but the true market value may be different this year depending on the local housing market. You also need to subtract the value of land, landscaping, and detached structures.
Unit 5: The area below a planned elevated house in the V Zone will have a 260 square foot enclosure to house the entryway and storage closets. The builder wants to insulate the area and finish it with wallboard, wallpaper, and carpeting. He says it's OK because the area is less than 300 square feet. What do you tell him?
It's not OK. Any enclosed space below the lowest floor must be built of flood resistant materials and free of obstruction, or constructed with non-supporting breakaway walls, open wood latticework or insect screening.
Unit 9: How can your community help its residents get a lower flood insurance rate?
Join the Community Rating System.
Unit 10: What are the guidelines of multi-objective management?
Keep the effort locally based. Understand the flood problem and its relation to the watershed. Identify the other community concerns and goals. Obtain expert advice and assistance from government agencies.
Unit 6: What is the preferred flood protection approach for critical facilities?
Keep them out of the 500-year floodplain. The next best approach is to protect them to the 500-year flood level.
MT-1 is filled out for:
LOMA's and LOMR-F's
MT-2 is filled out for:
LOMR's and CLOMR's
Who can complete an elevation certificate?
Land Surveyor. Engineer. Architect.
Unit 3: Floodways are shown along the ____ toe of a levee on the FIRM.
Landslide
Unit 10: Which of the following are benefits of the multi-objective management approach?
Looks at all possible solutions. Coordinates flood issues with other community concerns. Cost of implementing programs is shared with others. Floodplain and watershed are treated as resources.
Unit 10: Who can help you make sure people don't reoccupy damaged buildings before they have passed an inspection?
Make sure that the utility companies won't turn the service back on unless there is an "Approved to Connect". Instruct police and other departments about the permit requirements. Get the news media to spread the word.
Unit 2: What are the three basic parts of the NFIP?
Mapping, Insurance, and Regulation
Unit 1: What is a curve in the channel?
Meander
Unit 1: What are some of the safety and health hazards that accompany floods?
Mental health problems, fires, electrocution, mold, contaminated mechanical equipment, and damage to public utilities
Unit 1: What are examples of non-structural flood protection measures?
Modifying or retrofitting a building, guiding development away from the SFHA, controlling stormwater runoff, and building codes for requiring flood resistant construction in SFHA.
Unit 1: Hydrodynamic forces are caused by_____ water and hydrostatic forces are causes by_____ water
Moving, Standing
Unit 3: What is the most permanent FIS elevation reference mark to what datum?
NGVD29
Unit 2: What happened in 1973?
National Flood Disaster Act of 1973. Prohibited most types of federal assistance for acquistion or construction of buildings in floodplains of non-participating communities.
Unit 2: What happened in 1968?
National Flood Insurance Act of 1968 was created (also created the NFIP).
Unit 2: What is the NFIP?
National Flood Insurance Program. It is an insurance alternative for disaster assistance.
Pre-Disaster Program (PDM)
Nationally competitive program for states and communities. Must have FEMA approved mitigation plan. Activities must be cost effective. Eligible projects include elevation, localized flood control for critical facilities, relocation, storm water management, vegetation restoration.
Unit 3: What is wave runup?
Waves crashing on to shore higher than stillwater flood level.
Unit 5: What does Basic Rule #4 say about new buildings in A Zones?
New, substantially improved buildings must be protected from damage by the base blood.
Unit 9: Can I get flood insurance coverage for furniture in a basement?
No
How many inches does the bottom of flood openings have to be?
No higher than 12 inches. Openings may be equipped with screens, louvers, valves, or other coverings or devices that permit the automatic entry and exit of floodwaters.
Unit 1: Is erosion only a threat to coastal areas?
No, Riverine erosion can stream through channels and undercut structures.
Unit 5: Will paving a dirt street in the floodway need an engineer's "no-rise" certification?
No, as long as there are no grade changes from the existing
Unit 5: Can a new home in the flood fringe be floodproofed?
No, elevation is the only method as only non-residential can be floodproofed.
Unit 7: Can a surveyor sign a Floodproofing Certificate?
No, it must be signed by a registered professional engineer.
Unit 5: A building official finds it easier to read an old flood map prepared on an aerial photograph by the Corps of Engineers. He doesn't want tot use the current FIRM because it doesn't show all the buildings and features that the photograph does. Can be make permit decisions based on the Corps map instead of the FIRM?
No, the community must use the latest maps and dated provided by FEMA. If the other map shows a higher BFE and a larger floodplain, the community may adopt it in its ordinance as the regulatory floodplain and exceed the minimum NFIP requirements.
Unit 3: Do Q3 Flood data show base flood elevations if there are available?
No, they are only designed to determine if a property is in or out of the SFHA.
Can buildings in the CBRS or OPAS be eligible for flood insurance if built or substantially improved?
No.
Does a completed elevation certificate ever expire?
No.
Unit 5: Unit 5: Can a new nonresidential building be built: at grade, but floodproofed in the V Zone?
No.
Unit 7: Can a community grant a variance to allow a project in the floodway that will cause a 1/2 foot increase in flood heights.
No. "Variances shall not be issued by a community within any designated regulatory floodway if any increase in flood levels during the base flood discharge would result..." 44 CFR 60.6
Unit 9: Do I need an elevation certificate to purchase a flood insurance policy on a pre-FIRM building?
No. However, if you have one that shows the building to be at or above the BFE, you can get a Post-FIRM actuarial rate that is lower than the rate for pre-FIRM buildings.
Unit 5: If you find information that shows the ground to be higher than the BFE, can a bank use that data when determining whether a flood insurance policy must be purchased?
No. Insurance agents or lenders must use the current FIRM when setting rates and determining if flood insurance is required. If a person wants to vary from the current FIRM, obtain different premiums, or not have to purchase a policy the FIRM must be revised or amended; this can be done through a LOMA.
Unit 5: Can a new building be built in the V Zone elevated on a crawl space?
No. It can only be elevated on pilings, posts, piers, or columns to avoid wave action.
Unit 8: Before the flood, Mr. Johnson had been cited by the community for a code violation. The paint on his garage door had been peeling, which was a violation of the local housing maintenance code. Since the flood left mud up to the high water line, he decided to repaint the whole house. Can he claim exemption of the cost of the painting because it had been cited as a code violation?
No. Only exempt the items specifically required by the citation and what is minimally necessary to comply.
Unit 9: Can I request a LOMA to get my property out of a CBRS area?
No. The US Fish and Wildlife Services can interpret the boundaries and FEMA can correct map errors, only Congress can change the designation.
Unit 5: The state is which Flood County is situated requires a permit from the state Department of Environmental Protection for development on primary sand dunes. A permit applicant wants to build on one near Site F. Department staff informs you that based on the plans they have seen, they will have to deny the state permit. Should the Flood County permit office issue a floodplain development permit?
No. The local permit should not be issued until staff are certain that other agencies' requirements are met.
Unit 8: Mrs. Murphy got a permit two months ago to remodel her living room and kitchen. Now she wants a permit to remodel three bedrooms and two bathrooms. Should you check each of these separately to determine if each project is a substantial improvement?
No. They should be counted as one project and their total cost combined.
Unit 10: Can your community waive the requirement for a development permit so people can repair their flooded homes more quickly?
No. You can waive the permitting fee but you must require permits to see if the building was substantially damaged.
Unit 6: In how many court cases have the NFIP regulations been overrules as unconstitutional?
None
Unit 9: What's the best way to get a good flood insurance rate for a new building in an unnumbered A Zone?
Obtain or develop a base flood elevation for the site and require the to be elevated above it.
Unit 3: Prior to 1986, the maps published with an FIS are the ____ and the _____. Since 1986, the map published with an FIS is the ______
Old formit FIRM and Flood Boundary and Floodway Map; new format FIRM
Unit 3: A floodway analysis conducted to the minimum NFIP standard allows the fringe to be obstructed until the base flood level is increased by how much?
One foot
Unit 2: What should happen to pre-FIRM buildings over time?.
Over time, exposure to flood damage should be reduced, as the older pre-FIRM buildings are replaced by post-FIRM buildings.
Unit 1: What is the most common type of flooding?
Overbank flooding
Unit 5: What can be allowed under the lowest floor of an elevated building?
Parking, storage, and building access.
Unit 10: What two types of grants are available through the Flood Mitigation Assistance Program?
Planning grants to help develop or update a flood hazard mitigation plan. Project grants to implement projects in conformance with the flood mitigation plan.
Unit 2: Where does most of the money come from to pay the expenses of the NFIP?
Premium income. NFIP has been self sustaining since 1986.
Unit 9: Can I get a good flood insurance rate on a building in an AE Zone that is floodproofed to the base flood elevation?
Probably not. Unless the building is floodproofed to at least one foot above the BFE. the rate will be based on the elevation of the lowest floor. If the lowest floor is two or more feet below the BFE, it will be a submit for rate.
Unit 10: List some of the sources of financial assistance that are available for a mitigation?
Property owners willing to cost share on projects that help them. FEMA's Flood Mitigation Assistance Program. FEMA's Public/Infrastructure Program. FEMA's Human Services Program. FEMA's Hazard Mitigation Grant Program.
Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000
Provides communities to integrate mitigation into daily decisions about land use and development. Identify risk and vulnerabilities and develop long term strategies for protecting people and property.
Unit 3: What does an elevation reference mark look like on a FIRM?
RM or ERM with a small x followed by a number
Floodproofing in relation to Rating:
Rates are based on lowest floor unless floodproofed to 1 foot above base flood elevation.
Unit 2: What are "acturial rates"?
Rates based on the true risk the building is exposed to. Owners of pre-FIRM buildings do not pay these rates.
Unit 8: What kind of projects need a permit so you can check to see if they would be substantial improvements?
Remodeling projects. Rehabilitation projects. Building additions.
Unit 10: What is one of the best guides you can give to owners and residents of flooded buildings?
Repairing Your Flooded Home
Unit 4: When the Flood County FIS was completed, the watershed of the Rocky River was relatively undeveloped. Over the last 15 years, there has been a lot of new construction throughout this small watershed. The Town Engineer says that the base flood elevations are probably out of data and underestimate the true flood hazard. What can you do to attempt to get your FIRM updated?
Request a restudy or limited map maintenance project from FEMA.
Unit 5: Mrs. Smith is elevating a house in the AE Zone 8' above grade. How can you make sure that the area below the lowest floor won't be improved, finished or otherwise turned into living space?
Require that the lowest area must be kept open or require the owner to sign a non-conversion agreement.
Unit 5: Joe Hunter wants to build a small hunting cabin on a lake in an approximate A Zone. It will be the only building within two miles. There are no known sources of a base flood elevation. The cabin will cost less than $10,000 and he does not want to pay $2,000 for an engineering study to develop a BFE. What can you do to make sure the property is protected from flooding?
Require that the lowest floor of the cabin be at least five feet above grade.
Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP)
Requires Federal disaster declaration. State and communities must have an approved FEMA mitigation plan. Elevation, acquisition, retrofitting, and minor flood control are eligible projects. HMGP can be open to all areas of a state not just declared areas. Communities can apply on behalf of affected individuals and businesses.
Unit 5: A developer downstream of Dean Lake wants to build a 40 acre subdivision that crosses Ireland Creek. You need a base flood elevation before you review the plans. What options do you tell the developer he has?
Reserve the area as open space or conduct a flood study and produce BFEs at his expense.
Unit 3: Areas behind recognized levees are designated as ____ _____
Shaded Zone X
Unit 3: How is a floodway shown on the new format FIRM?
Shaded area with diagonal lines.
Unit 3: What is an AH Zone?
Shallow flooding base floodplain with base flood elevations.
Unit 3: What differentiates shallow flooding from riverine flooding?
Shallow flooding has no channel or flow
Unit 3: Cross sections describe the ______ of the floodplain.
Shape
Unit 1: Shallow flooding occurs in which three areas?
Sheetflow, ponding, and urban drainage areas
Unit 7: Why should you keep permit records?
Show what you approved and what you told the developer. Form a paper trail needed for legal proceedings. Give future owners information about the property. Are checked by FEMA or the state to determine if your community is in full compliance with the NFIP.
Unit 3: How many digits are there in the NFIP community identification number?
Six
Unit 1: What are three benefits that a floodplain contributes to a community?
Societal, Biological, and natural.
Unit 3: On NFIP maps, the 100-year floodplain is called the ________
Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA)
Unit 5: Vent Space Calculation
Square Footage divided by 128 (8" x 16" vent size) = Number of Required Vents
Unit 10: What sources of assistance are there to help your post disaster operations?
State NFIP coordinator, FEMA regional office, state building code agency, local or state health department, and other communities.
Unit 3: The BFEs for coastal studies are ____ _____ plus the _____ _____
Stillwater elevations, wave runup
Unit 1: What is the major cause of coastal flooding?
Storm Surge
Unit 1: Prior to the 1960's, what was the primary way to reduce flood losses?
Structural Flood Control (levees, dams, seawalls, etc...)
Unit 6: Name two higher regulatory standards that can be used to encourage building sites completely out of the floodplain?
Subdivision design that encourages cluster development on high ground. Low density zoning that gives owners large lots enough to avoid small floodplains.
What is "Submit to Rate"?
Submit to rate is when the lowest floor is more than 2 feet below the base flood elevation.
Unit 8: What is the basic rule on calculating the cost of the damage?
Substantial damage is determined regardless of the actual cost to the owner. You must figure the true cost of bringing the building back to its pre-damaged condition using qualified labor and materials obtained at market prices.
Unit 7: You discover that Mrs. Murphy has ordered five truckloads of fill to raise her backyard in the floodway. She never asked for a permit. What is the recommended first step to dealing with the situation?
Take to Mrs. Murphy and explain why a permit is needed and why it is important not to fill in the floodway. You should get voluntary compliance.
Unit 6: If a regulatory requirement prohibits an owner from any use of his land, it is referred to by the legal term _______
Taking
Repetitive Flood Claims Program (RFC)
Targets insured repetitive loss properties. Acquisition, structure demolition, and relocation with deed restriction for open space. Can be 100% federally funded if state/community can't meet the cost-share req. of FMA program. Priority goes to acquisitions that equal most savings for National Flood Insurance Fund.
Unit 5: If a subdivider makes sure that all building sites are above the BFE, does he need to do anything more the meet the NFIP requirements?
They need to make sure that all public utilities and facilities are located and constructed to minimize or eliminate flood damage.
Unit 6: Name three types of regulations that can protect natural resources in your floodplains.
Wetland protection regulations. Habitat protection regulations. Restrictions on on-site sewage disposal. Water quality regulations and rules on stormwater runoff. Designating unique or valuable areas for special protection.
Unit 2: What happened in 1994?
The National Flood Insurance Reform Act of 1994 was created. This strengthened mandatory purchasing requirement for flood insurance, authorized the CRS and created grant programs for mitigation.
Unit 6: How does compensatory storage work?
The developer is required to offset new fill put in the floodplain by excavating an additional floodable area to replace the lost flood storage area.
Unit 7: What is needed to support a No-Rise Certification?
The engineering or no-rise certification must be supported by technical data and signed by a registered professional engineer. The supporting technical data should be based on the standard step-backwater computer model used to develop the 100-year floodway shown on your FIRM or Flood Boundary and Floodway Map and the results tabulated in your Flood Insurance Study.
60.3(d) means:
When there is a floodway map and BFE on a FIRM. FIS/BFEs/Floodways
60.3(e) means:
When there is a map with coastal high hazard areas (V Zones). FIS/BFEs/Floodway/Coastal
Unit 1: What is a thalweg?
The force of a river channel that changes water as it moves downstream. It acts on the channel banks and on the channel bottom.
Unit 9: How do I know how much a flood insurance policy will cost for a Post-FIRM building with the lowest floor four feet below BFE?
The insurance agent has to send information on the building in for a special individualized rating known as "submit for rate"
Unit 7: What should you check for during the first site inspection?
The location of the floodplain and floodway boundaries. Setbacks from lot lines, channel banks, et.c Floodway encroachments.
Unit 6: If a state requirement is more restrictive than the NFIP requirements, which set of rules must a community follow?
The more restrictive state requirement
Unit 5: A restudy was performed on the Josias River. The preliminary study will not be final for another five months. It shows a new BFE at Site N that is two feet higher than the BFE in your current FIS. WHich one do you use to determine the flood protection level for a new home at Site N?.
Use the draft data unless the community disagrees with the data and intends to appeal it.
Unit 5: What map do you use if recently annexed areas do not show up on your community's FIRM?
Use their county or community FIRM it used to be in.
Unit 7: Who is response for ensuring that the elevation certificate is completed correctly?
The permit official
Unit 7: What are the key items you need to check when reviewing the plans for a new house to be built on a slab foundation on fill in the fringe?
The proposed elevation of the lowest floor. Your building code should also require you to make sure the fill will be properly compacted and protected from erosion and will not cause local drainage problems on neighboring properties.
Unit 7: What are the key items you need to check when reviewing the plans for a new house to be built on pilings in the V Zone?
The proposed elevation of the lowest floor. Whether there will be any enclosures below the elevated floor. The V Zone certification signed by a registered professional architect or engineer. The materials used in the area below the BFE.
Unit 3: What FIRM zone has wave heights greater than three feet?
V Zone
Unit 8: Based on tax assessor's records, the market value of 123 Main Street is $75,000. The owner wants to replace the HVAC and plumbing, remodel the kitchen and both bathrooms and convert his basement to a finished family room. His total cost is $20,000 for supplies. If a contractor were to do the job, the total cost would be $45,000. However, since he is a handyman and will do all the work himself, the total cost of his project is $20,000. What is your response?
The total cost of the project must be the true cost, including the cost of labor and donated materials. This project will be a substantial improvement.
Unit 1: What is hydrostatic pressure?
The weight of standing water pressure on a structure.
Unit 3: What was the problem with the way the floodway was shown on the old format Flood Boundary and Floodway maps?
The white area looked like a C Zone outside the floodplain. Also, people who had only a FIRM did not know of the floodway hazard.
Unit 7: What are the NFIP procedures for submitting an appeal to your Board of Appeals?
There are none, or more correctly, they are whatever your ordinance specifies.
Unit 5: What does Basic Rule #5 say about new buildings in V Zones?
There are special building requirements in addition to the building protection requirements.
How many openings are required for rating purposes? What about subgrade floors?
There must be a minimum of two openings positioned on at least two exterior walls. For subgrade floors, there must be a minimum of two openings positioned on a exterior wall adjacent to the lowest grade next to the building.
Unit 5: How is a 600 square foot motor home that is permanently attached to a reinforced block wall foundation treated differently from a manufactured home?
They are both treated the same. They must meet the same construction and elevation requirements.
Unit 5: How is a manufactured home outside of a manufactured housing park be treated differently from a convention "stick built" home?
They are both treated the same. They must meet the same construction and elevation requirements.
Unit 5: Why are pilings and posts preferred in V Zones?
They can better withstand the wind and water loads.
Unit 5: How can you protect a sewer system from flooding?
Through careful system design. Should be raised above base flood.
Unit 9: Where does a property owner go to buy a flood insurance policy?
To any licensed casualty insurance agent.
Unit 10: What are the objectives of a building condition survey?
To determine if the building is so dangerous that it should not be reentered without a careful inspection, and, To determine which buildings will need a floodplain development permit before they can be repaired or reoccupied.
Unit 5: If a residence is elevated above the BFE in an A Zone, where do you measure how high the building is?
Top of the lowest floor
Unit 3: Instead of cross sections, coastal engineers study ____
Transects
True or False: Elevation Certificate certifies building elevations, but does NOT waive the flood insurance purchase requirement.
True.
Unit 1: What causes a tsunami?
Underwater earthquake or volcano.
Unit 2: What is the "Write Your Own Program"?
When private insurance companies write and service NFIP flood insurance policies under their own name.
Unit 1: What is ponding?
When runoff collects in depressions and cannot be drain.
Unit 5: A restudy was performed on Rocky River. The Preliminary study will not be final for another five months. It shows a new BFE at Site B that is two feet lower than the BFE in your current FIS. Which one do you use to determine the flood protection level for a new home at Site B?
When the BFE in the new study is lower than the BFE in the existing study, the existing FIS data should be used until the new study is final.
Unit 7: When should you make the second inspection of a building on a slab foundation?
When the forms are in place, but before the concrete is poured.
60.3(c) means:
When there are flood elevations on a FIRM. (FIS/BFES)
60.3(b) means:
When there is a floodplain map but no flood elevations (Approximate A Zones)
60.3(a) means:
Where there is no floodplain map or data available.
Unit 7: A development plan proposes to fill and re-grade an area of the fringe to give most of the lots building sites that are above the BFE. The developer says "then we wont have the banks telling people my subdivision is in the floodplain." What do you tell the developer?
While the permit office can use better ground elevation data to determine that a building location is above the BFE (therefore out of the SFHA), the property will remain in the SFHA on the FIRM . That means it is still subject to the flood insurance purchase requirement and the insurance rates will be set at SFHA rates. It is the owner's responsibility to submit a request for a Letter of Map Revision (LOMR) in order to have the FIRM reflect the better data.
Unit 3: How is a floodway shown on the Flood Boundary and Floodway Map?
White area adjacent to and including the channel.
Unit 7: If the third inspection reveals that the builder of an apartment house has made a change to the structure that results in a major violation of your floodplain regulations, what can you do?
Withhold the Certificate of Occupancy.
Unit 3: A Zone C on an old format firm is shown as a Zone ____ on the new format FIRM
X
Unit 10: Can constructing a levee and maintaining sand dunes be considered flood hazard mitigation measures?
Yes
Unit 5: Can a basement be considered the "lowest floor"?
Yes
Unit 5: Can a new nonresidential building be built: at grade, but floodproofed in the flood fringe?
Yes
Unit 5: Can a new nonresidential building be built: on fill in the flood fringe?
Yes
Unit 5: Does a substantial improvement to an existing building have to meet the same requirements as construction of a new building?
Yes
Unit 5: Does replacing an old manufactured home with a new one on the same foundation need a permit?
Yes
Unit 7: If you use a level to verify the elevation of a building during the second inspection, will the builder still need to provide an as-built elevation certificate?
Yes
Unit 9: Can a community get CRS credit for activities implemented by a state agency on behalf of a community?
Yes
Unit 9: Can non-CRS communities obtain and benefit from CRS publications?
Yes
Unit 5: A builder wants to build a "bi-level" house where the lowest floor is three feet below grade. The lowest floor has large windows and includes three bedrooms and a bathroom. Because it is habitable space, the owner does not consider this a "basement." Does the NFIP consider this a basement?
Yes and the lowest floor (basement) must be above the BFE.
Unit 6: Does the NFIP allow communities to enact more restrictive regulatory standards?
Yes, "any floodplain management regulations adopted by a state or a community which are more restrictive than the criteria set forth in this part are encouraged and shall take precedence."
Unit 5: A business on the Mississippi River wants to build a floodproofed warehouse in the flood fringe. The plans are to have the walls built of reinforced concrete up to the BFE. Several garage doors will be open at grade to allow trucks in and out, but the design includes movable shields that can be put in place before floodwaters arrive. There would be no other openings below the BFE. The warehouse will have a 24 hour security force that will be trained to install the shield. The design engineer will certify that the building will be floodproofed (with human intervention) up to the base flood elevation. Can you approve these plans?
Yes, assuming there is adequate time to install the shields.
Unit 9: Can I wait and buy a flood insurance policy after I hear the National Weather Service issue a flood warning?
Yes, but no claim can be paid. There is a 30-day waiting period before coverage takes place.
Unit 6: Can a floodplain regulation ever prohibit new buildings from a portion of the floodplain?
Yes, if the area is sufficiently dangerous and/or there is a clear relationship between the prohibition and protecting the public from the hazard created by the development.
Unit 1: Does moving sand and sand dunes affect flooding?
Yes, it removes a natural barrier from inland properties.
Unit 2: Is there any relation between how a community regulates new construction and flood insurance rates?
Yes, lower insurance premiums and reduction of flood if a building is built in accordance with the community's regulations.
Unit 5: The builder of a house to be elevation on concrete columns wants to use wood for the stairway. He is concerned that the wood will swell and warp if it gets wet during a flood. Can a portion of the house below the BFE be built of wood?
Yes, provided it is pressure treated wood.
Unit 5: If you community follows the requirements of 44 CFR 60.3(d), does it have to worry about what's in 44 CFR 60.3(b)
Yes, the requirements are cumulative in Section 60.3
Unit 5: If an old manufactured home is replaced with a new one on the same foundation, will the new one have to be elevated above the BFE?
Yes, unless it is an existing manufactured home park. Then the owner has the option of elevation either above the BFE or 36" above grade on reinforced piers.
Unit 5: A builder wants to build an apartment building on stem walls parallel to the flow of water with the lowest floor 8' above grade. Can the lower area be used as a parking lot?
Yes.
Unit 8: Mr. Jones proposes a $50,000 addition to his $80,000 home in the floodplain. Is this a substantial improvement?
Yes.
Unit 9: Can a bank require flood insurance for a property outside the SFHA shown on the latest FIRM?
Yes. Any lender can require flood insurance if they want to (Federal law doesn't give lenders a choice for properties in the SFHA).
Unit 9: Is there much of a cost savings on flood insurance if the lowest floor of a post-FIRM building is one foot above the BFE instead of at the BFE?
Yes. For example, the rate for the first layer of building coverage for a single family building located in an AE Zone goes from $.89/$100 coverage to $.55, a savings of nearly 40%
Unit 5: Does dredging a creek to make it deeper to reduce flood levels need a floodplain permit?
Yes. It is considered development and all development needs a permit.
Unit 7: Is a V Zone Certification needed for a residential building?
Yes. It is needed for all buildings and substantial improvements in the V Zone.
Unit 6: Do Federal Agencies have to meet any floodplain development rules similar to the NFIP requirements?
Yes. The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and Executive Order 11988 require Federal agencies to meet the same or more restrictive development standards.
Unit 5: If a project will involve filling a wetland, is it likely that a federal or state permit will be needed?
Yes. The US Army Corps of Engineers requires a Section 404 permit for most wetland filling activities. A local permit should not be issued until it is clear that the project does not violate Section 404 Rules.
Mrs. Smith wants a new second story that will double the size and value of her house. The floor of the new story will be above the BFE. Will the old first floor have to be elevated?
Yes. The project should be a substantial improvement and the entire building will need to be elevated in this situation.
Unit 7: During your permit review, you find that the applicant's site plan shows that the ground is currently higher than the BFE. Should you continue to treat this as a floodplain development permit?
You do not have to. It's still a good idea to encourage the applicant to incorporate flood protection measures in case a future flood is higher than the predicted BFE.
Unit 7: A property has been annexed from the county into your city, but the FIRM has not been revised to reflect the annexation. What is the NFIP community number that is recorded in Item 1, Section B of the FEMA Elevation Certificate?
Your city's NFIP number. The county NFIP number is entered in Item 2 of Section B.
Unit 7: If a FEMA staff person finds a project violation of the FEMA NFIP requirements in your community, who is responsible for correcting the violation?
Your local permit official.
Unit 5: A builder wants to put a house in the floodway. How much can his project increase the base flood elevation (in feet)?
Zero. A project in a floodway is not allowed to cause any increase in floodwaters.
Unit 3: To make a floodplain map, the base flood elevations are plotted on a ____ map and a ____ map
contour/topographic map
