If a building is constructed too close to a body of water, what is typically required by NFIP?

Constructing a building too close to a body of water often necessitates elevation above the Base Flood Elevation (BFE) as part of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) requirements. The BFE is the height of the floodwater during a 100-year flood event, which is a significant factor in assessing flood risk. Elevating a structure above this level helps to minimize damage from potential flooding and is a key element in floodplain management.

This elevation requirement is designed to protect lives and property in flood-prone areas. It ensures that the lowest floor of the building is sufficiently raised to avoid being inundated during flood events, thereby reducing the risk of structural damage and increasing safety for occupants.

Other methodologies such as flood-proofing techniques or conducting additional flood studies may be beneficial in certain circumstances, but they do not replace the foundational requirement of elevation above the BFE in areas where the flood risk is substantial. Additionally, variances may sometimes be granted by local officials, but these are not typically standard requirements and are highly context-dependent. Therefore, ensuring that buildings are elevated above the BFE is a primary measure enforced by the NFIP to enhance flood resilience.