IS-1102: Theory of Elevation Rating

This course is to guide insurance professionals, particularly agents, through the steps to properly determine the Lowest Floor Elevation for Post-FIRM Buildings in A or V zones as shown on the FEMA Elevation Certificate. Due to BW-12 legislation and HFIAA-14, elevation certificates play a more crucial role in determining a policyholder’s premium rate.

• Determine when an Elevation Certificate is necessary to properly rate a flood insurance policy
• Describe the characteristics of, and differences between an A Zone and a V Zone
• List the steps for accurately identifying the lowest floor in a building for rating purposes using the Elevation Certificate
• Follow the basic steps for elevation rating
• Determine when a building should be considered a “submit for rate”
• Determine the lowest floor for rating for several types of non-elevated buildings using Elevation Certificate Building Diagrams 1 through 4
• Determine the lowest floor for rating for several types of elevated buildings using Elevation Certificate Building Diagrams 5 through 9
• Explain how rating in V Zones is different that rating in A Zones
• Describe the NFIP requirements for proper flood openings and how proper flood openings affect rating
• Describe how insect screening, lattice, or slats affect insurance rates
• Describe how machinery and equipment affect insurance rates
• Describe options for reducing NFIP Flood Insurance premiums
• Locate online resources related to elevation ratings