Does elevating a structure on posts or pilings remove a building from the Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA)?
Elevating a structure on posts or pilings does not remove a building from the SFHA. If the ground supporting posts or pilings is within a floodplain, the building is still at risk. The structure is considered to be within the floodplain, and flood insurance will be required as a condition of receipt of Federal or Federally related financing for the structure. The reason for this, even in cases where the flood velocity is minimal, is that the hydrostatic effects of flooding can lead to the failure of the structures posts or pilings foundation. The effects of ground saturation can lead to decreased load bearing capacity of the soil supporting the posts or pilings, which can lead to partial or full collapse of the structure. Even small areas of ponding will be subject to the hydrodynamic effects of flooding; no pond or lake is completely free of water movement or wave action. This movement of water can erode the ground around the posts or pilings and may eventually cause collapse of the s
Related Questions
- If a portion of the land is in the Special Flood Hazard Area, but the building itself is not, what will the flood zone determination state and is flood insurance required?
- If a home, business, or other structure within a special flood hazard area is damaged by fire, flood, wind, or other source of damage, can it be repaired?
- What if my property is located within a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA), but the structure is not? Is flood insurance required?
