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Insurance Glossary

FIRM

Property

Definition

Flood Insurance Rate Map - an official map created by FEMA that shows flood risk zones, base flood elevations, and floodplain boundaries for a community. FIRMs are used to determine flood insurance requirements and premium rates under the National Flood Insurance Program. These maps identify Special Flood Hazard Areas where flood insurance is mandatory for federally backed mortgages. Property owners can use FIRMs to understand their flood risk and make informed decisions about insurance coverage and property improvements. Maps are periodically updated as flood risk data changes.

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Related Terms

Flood Zone
Geographic areas that FEMA defines according to varying levels of flood risk. These zones are depicted on Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) and determine flood insurance requirements and premiums. High-risk zones (Special Flood Hazard Areas) include Zone A (1% annual chance of flooding) and Zone V (coastal high-hazard areas with wave action). Moderate-to-low risk zones include Zone B, C, and X. Properties in high-risk zones with federally backed mortgages must carry flood insurance. Zone designations directly impact insurance costs and building requirements.
Base Flood Elevation
The computed elevation to which floodwater is anticipated to rise during a base flood (a flood with a 1% chance of occurring in any given year, also called a 100-year flood). Shown on FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs), the BFE is used to determine flood insurance premiums and building requirements. Structures built below the BFE face higher insurance costs and greater flood risk. Local building codes typically require new construction in flood zones to have the lowest floor elevated at or above the BFE. Knowing your property's BFE is crucial for flood risk assessment and insurance decisions.
NFIP
The National Flood Insurance Program is a federal program created by Congress in 1968 to provide flood insurance to property owners, renters, and businesses. Managed by FEMA, the NFIP makes flood insurance available in communities that adopt and enforce floodplain management regulations to reduce future flood damage. Standard homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage, making NFIP policies essential for properties in flood-prone areas. The program offers up to $250,000 in building coverage and $100,000 in contents coverage.
Actual Cash Value
The repayment value for indemnification due to loss or damage of property; in most cases it is replacement cost minus depreciation.
Depreciation
The decrease in value of property over time due to wear, tear, age, or obsolescence.
Replacement Cost
The cost to replace damaged or destroyed property with new property of similar kind and quality, without deduction for depreciation.
Homeowners Insurance
Insurance coverage that protects your home and personal property against damage, theft, and liability claims.
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