A Repetitive Loss Property is defined by the National Flood Insurance Program as a property that is covered under a NFIP flood insurance policy and that has had two or more flood insurance claims of more than $1,000 paid within any 10-year period since 1978.
- Has received at least four NFIP claim payments (including building and contents) of more than $5,000 each, with cumulative claim payments exceeding $20,000; or
- Has received at least two separate building claim payments where the cumulative building claim amount exceeds the market value of the structure.
For Severe Repetitive Loss Properties, at least two of the qualifying claims must have occurred within a 10-year period and be more than 10 days apart.
Repetitive Loss Area Map
Charlotte County's GIS Division has developed a map identifying areas where repetitive flood loss claims have occurred. Specific flood insurance claim information is protected under the Federal Privacy Act of 1974 and cannot be released. However, the County can identify general areas where repetitive flood losses occur.
Repetitive Loss Area Map Repetitive Loss Areas - Causes of Flooding
- History of repetitive flood loss claims
- Similar exposure to a flood source
- Similar construction characteristics, including foundation type
- Similar age of structures
- Similar topography and/or drainage patterns
- Elevating your home or business above anticipated flood levels
- Raising mechanical equipment above flood levels
- Installing flood openings in non-habitable areas to equalize floodwater pressure
- Removing furniture, equipment, and valuables from lower enclosures
Retrofitting
Retrofitting is the process of making improvements to an existing building to reduce or prevent damage from flooding and other hazards.
Floodproofing
Floodproofing consists of structural and non-structural modifications that reduce flood damage to buildings. For non-residential buildings that are under construction or undergoing substantial improvement, floodproofing may allow portions of the structure to remain below the required Base Flood Elevation (BFE). Floodproofing below the BFE is not permitted for residential structures.
Dry Floodproofing
Dry floodproofing is designed to make a structure watertight below the Base Flood Elevation, preventing floodwaters from entering the building. Examples include flood shields, flood panels, flood barriers, and flood gates that are installed over building openings before a flood event. Additional dry floodproofing measures may include applying water-resistant materials to exterior walls and other building components to help prevent water intrusion.
- Requires ongoing maintenance and inspection
- Can be labor-intensive to deploy before flood events
- Subjects the structure to hydrostatic pressure from floodwaters
Wet Floodproofing
Wet floodproofing allows floodwaters to enter and exit designated areas of a structure while minimizing damage through the use of flood-resistant materials. This method does not keep the structure dry, making post-flood cleanup and restoration essential.
- Allow water to flow in and out of enclosed areas
- Reduce hydrostatic pressure on walls and foundations
- Can be designed to help prevent debris and animals from entering
Climate Change and Flood Risk
Climate change and sea level rise can increase flooding risks. Rising sea levels can result in more frequent and severe flood events, even in areas that have not historically experienced significant flooding.
NOAA Climate Change and Global Sea Level Rise
FEMA Resources and Financial Assistance
FEMA provides guidance on retrofitting and floodproofing techniques that can help protect structures from flood damage and, in some cases, reduce flood insurance premiums. These measures are especially recommended for repetitive loss properties because they can help break the cycle of recurring flood damage. For more information, visit FEMA's Homeowner's Guide to Retrofitting. Property owners insured through the NFIP may also be eligible for FEMA mitigation grants.