LETTER: Flood Insurance Rate Increases

From Nancy Prendergast:

In May and October of each year, FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) revises information in their NFIP (National Flood Insurance Program) Flood Insurance Manual, which can include the flood insurance policy rates that are used by insurance agents and companies who write NFIP policies.  According to FEMA, new or renewed policies effective on and after October 1, 2012 will see an average premium increase of 5%. The updated October 2012 Flood Insurance Manual and its changes can be found on FEMA’s Manual web site (http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=6393). Rate Increases for Non-Primary Residential Structures (e.g. Vacation or Second Homes) beginning on January 1, 2013. 

Do you have difficulties using the FEMA floodplain maps to determine whether a structure is in or out of the floodplain?  If so, GRANITView, is for you.   GRANITView (http://granitview.unh.edu/) is an on-line mapping tool that was developed by GRANIT, NH’s statwide GIS clearinghouse.  GRANITView includes several layers such as base layers, soils, water resources, topography, and floodplains.  The floodplain layers available in GRANITView are the same floodplain areas that are shown on FEMA’s floodplain map.  

If you have any questions about the NFIP, you can contact Jennifer Gilbert, Floodplain Management Program Coordinator, at 603-271-2155, or your homeowner’s insurance carrier.