Damage Inspections

There are many factors that local officials will need to consider and several scenarios they may encounter while implementing the SI/SD requirements for properties deemed “substantially improved (SI)” or “substantially damaged (SD)".

Inspection process

Immediately after large-scale storms that cause structural damage or other event that damages structure in the floodplain, the floodplain administrator shall tour damaged areas and identify every structure that has had flooding or obvious structural damage. Inspections of the damaged structures shall be conducted in conformance with FEMA's Substantial Improvement/ Substantial Damage Desk Reference

FEMA has developed a computer program called the Substantial Damage Estimator (SDE) to assist local officials estimate building value and damage costs. This computer program is based on regulatory requirements of the NFIP and is intended to be used in conjunction with an industry accepted residential cost estimating guide

The Substantial Damage Estimator (SDE) can be downloaded directly from the FEMA website.

Rapid Action Flood Assistance Team (RAFT)

The purpose of creating IAFSM Rapid Assistance Flood Team (RAFT) is to assist communities in times of flooding or other natural disasters. Members of the RAFT are all active in the IAFSM. Members are all Certified Floodplain Managers. They represent local, state and federal government, the private sector, and other professional disciplines. RAFT members all have experience and training in post-flood responsibilities. RAFT members are all volunteers and have agreed to assist other communities in times of need.

To request RAFT assistance, contact the current IAFSM Floodplain Management Committee Chair.

For more information, see the Rapid Assistance Damage Inspection Flood Team (RAFT) Guidance document