Elevation Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages Disadvantages Brings a substantially damaged or improved building into compliance with the NFIP if the lowest floor is elevated to the BFE May be cost-prohibitive Reduces flood risk to the structure and its contents May adversely affect the structure's appearance Eliminates the need to relocate vulnerable items above the flood level during flooding Does not eliminate the need to evacuate during floods Often reduces flood insurance premiums May adversely affect access to the structure Uses established techniques Cannot be used in areas with high-velocity water flow, fast-moving ice or debris flow, or erosion unless special measures are taken Can be initiated quickly because qualified contractors are often readily available May require additional costs to bring the structure up to current building codes for plumbing, electrical, and energy systems Reduces the physical, financial, and emotional strains that accompany flood events Requires consideration of forces from wind and seismic hazards and possible changes to building design Does not require the additional land that maybe needed for floodwalls or levees