ArizonaElevationCertificates.com was created in order to help clients in the Phoenix metro area navigate through the world of elevation certificates.  We have been surveying Arizona for many years, and are happy to help you understand how the process works. Our professional support staff and land surveyors pride themselves on customer service, and we will walk you through the process. We go above and beyond to get the job done.

What is an elevation certificate?

An elevation certificate verifies the elevation of a structure of a home or business in reference to known elevations. Elevation certificates are used by insurance companies in the rating of flood insurance policies and by builders and municipalities to ensure that local floodplain management ordinances are being followed.

An elevation certificate is required if your building was built or substantially improved on or after the date of your community’s initial Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM). Such buildings are considered “Post-FIRM”.  Be sure to check with your insurance agent if your house or structure is pre-FIRM or post-FIRM. Structures that were built before their community’s first Flood Insurance Rate Map pay an insurance premium based on chargeable rates that are subsidized by tax dollars. Buildings that were built or substantially improved after FIRM are charged actuarially sound insurance rates that fully reflect the building’s risk of flooding.

Where do I get an elevation certificate, and who needs to sign it?

Elevation certificate forms can be found on the FEMA website, at www.fema.gov and must be signed by a registered land surveyor, which means that a survey must first be completed.  But don’t worry, we will take care of getting the correct form and getting you the information you need to submit to your insurance agent or lender.

Where can I find out more information about flooding in Maricopa County?

Please go to www.fcd.maricopa.gov for more information.