New HUD 2-Foot Freeboard Requirement

November 5, 2024

This blog post covers information about the new HUD 2-foot Freeboard requirement.

Read on for a brief introduction to learn how this rule may affect you and see the compilation of resources at the end to dive deeper.

The Federal Flood Risk Management Standard (FFRMS) is a government program aimed at increasing the resilience of infrastructure to flooding. A key aspect of the program is a new rule from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) that requires all new structures in floodplains to be elevated at least two feet above the base flood elevation in order to be eligible for an FHA loan. This regulation is significant because approximately 26% of mortgages in the United States are FHA loans, with first-time home buyers making up a large portion of this demographic. The rule, which takes effect in 2025, will have a lasting impact on all structures built after its implementation.

                             What?                             

The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) passed a rule that will require the lowest floor of certain residential properties to be at least two feet above base flood elevation (BFE) in order to receive federally-backed mortgage insurance.

                             Who?                             

Properties Affected:

• Single- to Four-unit residences
• Residences located in Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA)

Homebuyers Affected:

• Those insured under Federal Housing Administration (FHA) Single Family mortgages

               Find our more at these resources!               

Colorado DNR Webinar – HUD’s New FFRMS Requirements

3:00p MT – Thursday, November 21, 2024

Registration

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MHFD – New HUD Rule Infographic

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ASFPM – Three Things to Know About New HUD FFRMS Rule

ASFPM – Communities Should Consider Adopting a 2-Foot Freeboard Now!

ASFPM – New HUD Rule FAQ

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DNR – Rules and Regulations for Regulatory Floodplains in Colorado

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HUD – Federal Flood Risk Management Standard

HUD – Federal Flood Risk Management Standard FAQ

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FEMA – Federal Flood Risk Management Standard

FEMA – Federal Flood Risk Management Standard Policy Fact Sheet

FEMA – Federal Flood Risk Management Standard FAQ

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FEMA/HUD – Federal Flood Standard Support Tool

NOAA – Federal Flood Standard Support Tool Intro Video

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