What processes are available for changing or correcting the information shown on the flood hazard map when large areas of a community are affected?
One way in which FEMA updates flood hazard maps is to conduct a Government-funded detailed reevaluation of flood hazards, referred to as a flood study. The flood study process is very costly and can take up to 5 years to complete. Because of the time and expense involved in conducting a restudy, FEMA bases its decision on whether to conduct a restudy on a benefit-cost analysis. Through this analysis, FEMA weighs the expected benefits to existing and future development against the funds to be expended. In this way, the flood studies that will yield the most benefit are performed first. However, the number of flood studies needed far outweighs the funds available to perform them.

As an alternative, FEMA established procedures by which an interested community may compile appropriate data and request a map revision. Map revisions are often completed in less than 90 days from the date all data are received.

Show All Answers

1. What is the National Flood Insurance Program?
2. What is the "new" FEMA map?
3. How do I obtain a copy of the flood hazard map for the City of San Mateo?
4. Why do I need to purchase insurance if there has never been a flood in the neighborhood?
5. Why is purchasing flood insurance important to homeowners?
6. Is flood insurance required for all structures in the floodplain?
7. What is the difference between tidal flooding and stormwater/residual flooding?
8. What other projects are needed to get my neighborhood out of the flood zone?
9. What is the City doing to help residents stuck in the flood zone?
10. Why doesn’t the City form assessment districts to fund completion of all flood related projects?
11. How do I purchase a flood insurance policy?
12. How are flood insurance premium rates calculated?
13. If my agent has questions where should he/she call?
14. What processes are available for changing or correcting the information shown on the flood hazard map when large areas of a community are affected?
15. Why is the burden of proof placed on the community or person that requests a map change?
16. What can homeowners do if they believe their homes should not be included in an SFHA?
17. Under what circumstances will FEMA waive the review and processing fee for a map change request?
18. Where can I learn more about the National Flood Insurance Program?
19. Why did a lien show up on the property report in February 2020?
20. How do I obtain a flood elevation certificate for my property?