CFS Case Analysis & Practical Application 3

Question 1

A surveyor is asked to prepare an Elevation Certificate for a manufactured home located in Zone AE. The home is on a permanent foundation with the lowest floor at BFE + 2 feet. Which NFIP flood insurance rating factor does this positively affect?

Accepted Answer

The elevation difference between the lowest floor and BFE, which reduces the insurance premium

Answer

Being elevated above the BFE reduces NFIP flood insurance premiums because the elevation difference is a primary rating factor.

Question 2

During a floodplain analysis, a surveyor discovers that a levee protecting a community has not been certified as providing 1% annual chance flood protection. How should this affect the FIRM?

Accepted Answer

The area behind the levee should be mapped as Zone AE or Zone A reflecting actual flood risk

Answer

An uncertified levee cannot be credited with providing 1% annual chance flood protection, so the area behind it must reflect its true flood hazard.

Question 3

A surveyor is evaluating a structure built in 1975 in a community that entered the NFIP in 1980. The structure is non-compliant with current elevation standards. How is this structure classified under NFIP?

Accepted Answer

A pre-FIRM structure, which may qualify for subsidized flood insurance rates

Answer

Structures built before a community's FIRM effective date are classified as pre-FIRM and historically qualified for subsidized NFIP rates.

Question 4

A coastal Zone AE area has a wave setup component that adds 1.5 feet above the stillwater BFE. A proposed structure places the lowest floor at stillwater BFE + 1 foot. Is this compliant with NFIP standards?

Accepted Answer

No, because the lowest floor must account for wave setup and be placed at or above the total BFE including wave effects

Answer

In coastal areas, the BFE includes stillwater plus wave effects; the lowest floor must meet the total BFE, not just the stillwater component.

Question 5

A surveyor is hired to assess a subdivision where 40% of lots are shown in Zone AE and 60% in Zone X. A developer wants to regrade the entire subdivision so all lots are at BFE + 1 foot. What is the most appropriate next step?

Accepted Answer

Prepare a CLOMR to evaluate the proposed fill and its effect on floodplain hydraulics before any grading begins

Answer

A Conditional Letter of Map Revision (CLOMR) must be obtained before placing fill in the floodplain to evaluate hydraulic impacts and approve the proposed changes.

(CFS) Certified Floodplain Surveyor Practice Test

(CFS) Certified Floodplain Surveyor Practice Test

CFS Case Analysis & Practical Application 3