Property · Insurance Term
Elevation Certificate (EC)
Definition
An elevation certificate (EC) is a FEMA form that documents a building's flood zone, its elevation and features like the height of the lowest floor. A licensed land surveyor, engineer or architect usually completes it. Under the NFIP's current pricing it is optional, but submitting one may lower a flood premium.
In Plain English
The certificate records measurements such as the height of the lowest floor and of building equipment compared with expected flood levels. Insurers, lenders and local floodplain managers use it to understand a building's flood risk.
FEMA says an EC is not required to buy coverage through the National Flood Insurance Program under its current pricing approach. Owners can still submit one to see whether it lowers their premium. Private flood insurance insurers may also ask for one or use it in their own pricing.
Before hiring a surveyor, ask your local floodplain manager whether an EC is already on file for your building. ECs are also used for map changes and to show that a building in a flood zone meets local building rules.
Not sure how your policy handles this? Have us review it, or get a quote.
Example
Hypothetical and simplified: An owner of a small office building in a high-risk zone gets a flood quote based on FEMA's own data. A surveyor's elevation certificate shows the first floor sits well above the expected flood level. The owner submits it, and the NFIP insurer re-rates the policy, which may lower the premium.
Why It Matters for Texas Property Owners
Many Houston-area and coastal Texas properties sit near bayous, creeks or mapped floodplains, and flood maps change over time. Owners buying or refinancing in these areas often find an elevation certificate useful when comparing NFIP and private flood options.
What to Watch For
- Ask your city or county floodplain office whether an EC already exists for your building.
- Use a licensed surveyor, engineer or architect for a new certificate.
- Get an updated EC after major changes, such as raising equipment or adding fill.
- Share the EC with your agent so it can be used for both NFIP and private flood quotes.
Sources
Last updated October 14, 2026 · Primesure editorial team · How We Write