Requirements

Flood insurance is required by the federal regulations for structures either partially or completely in Flood Zone AE or VE and with a mortgage backed by federal programs. Owning flood insurance is necessary to maintain eligibility for most federal or federally related financial reconstruction or acquisition assistance.

Much of Portsmouth is susceptible to some level of flooding, and all property owners and renters are encouraged to contact an insurance agent to inquire about purchasing flood insurance. Even if your home is not in a defined Hazard Area, you still may want a policy since each year between 25% to 30% of flood insurance claims occur in non-hazard areas.

Homeowner Flood Insurance Affordability Act

On March 21, 2014, President Obama signed into law H.R. 3370, the Homeowner Flood Insurance Affordability Act of 2014 (HFIAA). The law repeals and modifies certain provisions of the Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act of 2012 (BWA) and makes other changes to the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).

Preferred Risk Policy 

The National Flood Insurance Program's (NFIP) Preferred Risk Policy (PRP) offers lower-cost protection for homes and apartments in areas of low to moderate flood risk. These areas outside of known floodplains are shown as B, C, or X, zones on a Flood Insurance Rate Map. Additional information is available here Preferred Risk Policy.

Homeowner's Guide to Elevation Certificates

An Elevation Certificate is an important tool that documents your building's elevation. If you live in a high-risk flood zone, you should provide an Elevation Certificate to your insurance agent to obtain flood insurance and ensure that your premium accurately reflects your risk. Obtaining an Elevation Certificate also can help you make decisions about rebuilding and mitigation after a disaster.