FEMA’s new flood insurance plan will drastically raise the cost of insuring coastal properties.
Called Risk Rating 2.0, the recently released plan is widely believed to more accurately reflect flood risks. But it is also likely to lead to a decreased property values along with higher insurance premiums.
Risk Rating 2.0 is the first major update to the government insurance program’s risk analysis system since the National Flood Insurance Program emerged in the late 1960s. The old system provided a flat risk estimate for an entire floodplain. The new system estimates the individual risk facing each home, incorporating new data about water dynamics and replacement costs.
The old system did not consider the replacement cost of a house, so owners of low-value homes subsidized those with more valuable properties. Homeowners will now pay premiums for the specific flood risk for their home, rather than for their general area.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Mar 22, 2021
Think tank offers plan for new approach to reduce neighborhood poverty
Strategy uses more targeted approach to invest in low-income areas.
Codes and Standards | Mar 19, 2021
California city bans construction of new gas stations
Existing stations will not be allowed to add more pumps.
Codes and Standards | Mar 18, 2021
Congressmen ask Biden to tackle rising lumber costs
Rising materials costs and supply shortages threaten economic recovery, housing starts.
Codes and Standards | Mar 16, 2021
Massachusetts bill would mandate rooftop solar on new homes, commercial buildings
Proposed Bay State mandate modeled on California’s.
Codes and Standards | Mar 15, 2021
Nevada may create areas for tech companies to form own governments
Legislation calls for ‘Innovation Zones’ that could become smart cities.
Codes and Standards | Mar 11, 2021
Los Angeles commits to carbon-free city buildings
City will take into account embedded carbon when contracting to buy construction products.
Codes and Standards | Mar 10, 2021
‘Smart retrofitting’ will be crucial to net zero aspirations
AI, analytical software, Internet of Things are keys to decarbonization of built environment.
Codes and Standards | Mar 9, 2021
Salt Lake City is first jurisdiction to adopt new standards for off-site construction
Code Council and Modular Building Institute developing standards and compliance protocols.
Codes and Standards | Mar 8, 2021
Hyperlocal zoning could spur more affordable housing construction
Letting blocks and streets pass their own rules could have impact.
Codes and Standards | Mar 5, 2021
Biden builds on Trump’s “Buy American” order
New administration extends preferences for domestic construction materials.