If you live in or are purchasing property in Florida—especially along the coast or in low-lying inland areas—you’ve probably heard the term elevation certificate. But what exactly is it, and why is it so important? Whether you're planning to build, buy, or insure a property, understanding the role of a FEMA elevation certificate in Florida can save you time, money, and headaches.
At Nunamaker Land Surveying, we’ve been providing flood zone surveys and elevation surveys for insurance throughout the Florida Panhandle for over 25 years. In this article, we’ll explain what an elevation certificate is, when you need one, and how our team can help.
An elevation certificate is a document prepared by a licensed land surveyor, engineer, or architect. It details the elevation of a building relative to the base flood elevation (BFE) set by FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency).
The base flood elevation is the computed elevation to which floodwater is anticipated to rise during a 100-year flood event in a given area. If your building’s lowest floor is above this level, your flood risk—and potentially your flood insurance premium—can be significantly reduced.
Elevation certificates are used by:
Not every property requires an elevation certificate, but it’s essential in many cases throughout Florida, especially in areas near the coast, rivers, lakes, or wetlands. Here are some common scenarios when you’ll need a FEMA elevation certificate in Florida:
If you’re purchasing a home or land in a FEMA-designated Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA), your lender will likely require flood insurance. To determine your rate, the insurance provider will need an elevation certificate.
Planning to build in a flood zone? Local building departments often require an elevation certificate to ensure your project complies with floodplain regulations. This is critical for issuing permits and approving final inspections.
If your home is in or near a flood-prone area, getting a professional elevation survey for insurance may help you qualify for lower premiums. A higher elevation relative to the BFE usually means lower risk—and lower cost.
An up-to-date elevation certificate can be a selling point for potential buyers, particularly if it shows the property is elevated above flood levels, making it more attractive and insurable.
An elevation certificate includes detailed information about your property’s flood risk. Specifically, it provides:
These data points are used by insurers and local authorities to assess your risk level and compliance with floodplain development standards.
Not all surveyors have experience preparing FEMA-compliant documents. At Nunamaker Land Surveying, we specialize in flood zone surveys and have deep knowledge of the Florida Panhandle’s topography and flood risk areas.
Here’s why clients trust us with their elevation certificates:
Whether you're buying a property in Tallahassee, building in Marianna, or seeking flood insurance for a home in Panama City, Nunamaker Land Surveying can deliver the elevation survey for insurance you need.
Don’t wait until the last minute to secure your elevation certificate. Whether it's for insurance, permitting, or peace of mind, a professional elevation survey is a critical step in protecting your investment.
Contact Nunamaker Land Surveying today to request a quote or schedule your FEMA elevation certificate in Florida. We’re proud to help property owners across the Florida Panhandle make informed decisions and stay compliant with local and federal regulations.