Flood mapping can be complicated, but the principals are easily understood. If you have a home a few feet above sea level there is a much greater risk of flooding than a dwelling 100 feet above sea level. While the FIRM map is the first step in determining flood insurance is required, a flood elevation certificate is the final step in determining if flood insurance will be required. In an area such as Whidbey there may be a dramatic elevation change within a particular parcel from beach level to the structure sitting at the top of a bluff.

If your lender is suddenly forcing you into flood insurance and your house sits at a high elevation you may want to consider hiring a surveyor to conduct an elevation certificate before purchasing a high-risk flood policy. An elevation certificate is an exact determination of the elevation between your dwelling and a high risk flood zone. Thatcher & Morrison Inc. conducts flood elevation certificates on Whidbey Island for a flat rate of $600. Due to the increased requirements in the wake of Hurricane Katrina surveyors will need access to into your house, as well as underneath it in order to complete the survey.

Contact Cascadia Agency if you have further questions on flood insurance.  Flood insurance on Whidbey waterfront homes can run thousands of dollars a year, so a proper elevation certificate may be a wise investment.