Effective 6/1/2014, the Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act of 2012, will phase out Pre-FIRM subsidized rates for buildings constructed before their communities’ initial Flood Insurance Rate Map became effective. The impact of this change is a 25% rate increase on buildings defined as secondary homes.
Secondary homes are defined as a home where the named insured or a spouse lives less than 50% of the year.
The NFIP will be sending a letter out to Policyholders that have homes currently rated as Pre-FIRM. It will be the responsibility of the owner of the building/home to provide proof that the residence is a primary home. If proof is not received, the 25% rate increase will be applied.
The documentation that an owner could provide to prove their occupancy includes:
- Driver’s license
- Vehicle registration
- Proof of Insurance for a Vehicle
- Voters Registration
Because this premium increase is mandated by law, if you do not provide documentation your rate will reflect the 25% increase.
Additional information also available here through FEMA's website.
Please contact ECBM, LP with any questions on this important change in Flood Insurance.
