Our Services

Our team at FEMA Appraisals can help assist you with your Substantial Improvement or 50% FEMA Rule Appraisal. The purpose of a 50% FEMA Rule is to promote redevelopment at or above the base flood elevation.  In order to overcome this issue, one must determine the depreciated value of the improvements or the actual cash value (ACV) of the structure.  Land value is not considered.  Local building departments require a 50% FEMA Rule Appraisal or as it is often referred to an Actual Cash Value Appraisal of the improvements to determine if the scope of work on the commercial or residential property will be a Substantial Improvement. Improvements and repairs on damaged residential or commercial properties that are below the minimum elevation are subject to a budget limit that is 50% of the Actual Cash Value of the improvements - this is why it is often referred to as the 50% Rule.

All properties, regardless of commercial or residential that are located in the flood zones and are not elevated to Base Flood Elevation (BFE) are subject to the 50% FEMA Rule.

FEMA Appraisals can help you prepare a FEMA compliant 50% FEMA Rule appraisal for your next commercial or residential project.

Taken form the FEMA Desk Reference

FEMA Rule states:

If the cost of improvement and addition or the cost to repair exceeds 50% of the depreciated market value of the structure, it must be brought up to current floodplain management standards.

If your property or new construction of both residential and commercial is within the flood zones A1-30, AE, AH, V1-30, V and VE on the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM), then you must build your lowest floor above the Base Flood Elevation (BFE). All properties in the V zones must be constructed on erected piles.

If you are in need of a 50% FEMA Rule appraisal, you should contact us directly at 305-595-1312.

We can assist you in completing your 50% FEMA Rule appraisal. We have the experience, expertise, and knowledge as well as a diverse team to assist you.