Raise the First Floor Level at Least 1’ Above the Base Flood Elevation (BFE) in A Zones and at Least 3’ above the BFE in V Zones

FEMA has classified different parts of the country according to their risk of flooding. V Zones are those subject to the greatest risk and are typically those properties located directly on the coast. As such, they are exposed to the largest waves during a hurricane storm surge and thus, have the highest recommended “freeboard” or elevation above the 100 year Base Flood Elevation. A Zones are the second highest risk area and are typically those properties located near a lake, river, stream, or other body of water.

Raising the first floor level at least 1’ above BFE in A Zones and at least 3’ above BFE in V Zones greatly enhances the flood resistance of a home. This measure will keep wood and finish materials high enough to prevent or limit water damage and the subsequent problems this causes. In V Zones, coastal A Zones where surge can be a problem or in riverine areas where flood waters may be moving swiftly, open foundations and extra elevation are critical to allow a clear area for flow through. Figure 9–6 illustrates these concepts. Further, flood maps for all regions of the country are available at https://msc.fema.gov/portal.