Rumor: FEMA will tear my home down if damage is more than 50% of its value.

Fact

This is false. FEMA does not tear down or condemn any structures. Local officials regulate development in areas that have a higher risk of flooding.

If your community participates in the National Flood Insurance Program and local officials determine your home is substantially damaged, you may need to take extra steps to repair to current local building standards. Many local community ordinances require this when they decide the cost to repair your home is 50% or more of the fair market value. However, you need to ask your local community building officers for the specific information in your area. Recommend visiting the official webpage for your city or county for contact information.

Rebuilding to your community’s most current standards is important because it better protects property from the effects of flooding.