If you just received an elevation certificate in Georgia, you are probably wondering what it actually does and what you should do next.
Does this lower your flood insurance?
Can it remove your flood zone or eliminate the requirement?
In this guide, you will learn exactly how to use your elevation certificate, how it can save you money, and what steps to take next to make the most of it.
What Is an Elevation Certificate?
An elevation certificate is a document that shows how high your structure sits compared to the expected flood level, also known as the Base Flood Elevation.
It is typically completed by a licensed surveyor and includes:
- Structure elevation
- Lowest adjacent grade
- Flood zone information
- Building characteristics
What an Elevation Certificate Cannot Do
It Does Not Cancel Flood Insurance
Even with an elevation certificate, you are still required to carry flood insurance if your lender requires it.
It Does Not Remove a Lender Requirement
If your property is in a high-risk flood zone and you have a federally backed mortgage:
Your lender will still require flood insurance.
It Does Not Change Your Flood Zone
Your flood zone is determined by FEMA maps, not your elevation certificate.
What an Elevation Certificate Can Do
It Can Lower Your Flood Insurance Premium
Under Risk Rating 2.0, elevation is one of the biggest factors in pricing.
If your elevation certificate shows your home is higher than FEMA originally estimated:
You could see savings of $500 to $2,000 per year without changing your flood zone.
Real Example from Georgia
- Mineral Bluff, Zone AE
- Premium as low as $100 per year through CatCoverage
- Strong elevation data was the key factor
It Can Help You Qualify for a LOMA
If your elevation certificate shows the lowest adjacent grade is at or above the Base Flood Elevation, you may qualify for a Letter of Map Amendment.
A LOMA can remove the flood insurance requirement from your lender.
We currently have dozens of active LOMA cases in Georgia, so this is a common opportunity.
Important Note
LOMA approval is not guaranteed, but the elevation certificate is required to even start the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will an elevation certificate remove my flood insurance requirement?
No. It does not remove the requirement on its own, but it can help you qualify for a LOMA.
How long does a LOMA take in Georgia?
Most LOMA reviews take 60 to 90 days once submitted to FEMA.
Do all insurance companies use elevation certificates?
No. Some rely on them heavily, while others do not. This is why comparing options is important.
What is the next step after getting an elevation certificate?
Have it reviewed for savings opportunities and LOMA eligibility, then shop it with multiple insurance carriers.
What You Should Do Next
Getting an elevation certificate can feel like a turning point, but only if you know how to use it correctly.
The key is taking action with the information, not just having the document.
Your next step is to have your elevation certificate reviewed for both cost savings and LOMA eligibility so you can make the most informed decision possible.
If you have an elevation certificate and are not sure what to do next, click below to get the get The Guide to Elevation Certificates.
