Create an Account - Increase your productivity, customize your experience, and engage in information you care about.
New Construction - For Floodplain Management Purposes: Structures for which the start of construction commenced on or after the effective date of a floodplain management regulation adopted by a community and includes any subsequent improvements to such structures.
SEE Elevation, Existing Construction, Start of Construction
For Determining Insurance Rates: Structures for which the start of construction commenced on or after the effective date of an initial FIRM or after December 31, 1974, whichever is later, and includes any subsequent improvements to such structures. Flood insurance rates for new construction are based on the elevation of the lowest floor (including basement) in relation to the BFE.
Permanent construction does not include land preparation, such as clearing, grading, and filling, nor does it include the installation of streets and/or walkways; nor does it include excavation for a basement, footings, piers, or foundations or the erection of temporary forms; nor does it include the installation on the property of accessory buildings, such as garages or sheds not occupied as dwelling units or not part of the main structure. For a substantial improvement, the actual start of construction means the first alteration of any wall, ceiling, floor, or other structural part of a building, whether or not that alteration affects the external dimensions of the building.
For determining if new construction and substantial improvements within the Coastal Barrier Resources System (CBRS) can obtain flood insurance, a different definition applies.