Flood Damage Control
Overview
Information regarding issues of Flood Damage Control are specified at the sites below. Building Inspection Division follows guidelines specified by FEMA and GEMA and in accordance to Glynn County Zoning Ordinances.
FLOOD INSURANCE
Your homeowner’s insurance policy will not cover losses due to flooding. Glynn County participates in the National Flood Insurance Program which makes flood insurance available to everyone in the County. This is a government policy and the Federal Government writes the policy and sets the rates. For many people, their home and its contents represent their greatest investment. The cost of the policy depends on your flood zone. Renters living in a flood zone can also insure their possessions. Please note that there is a 30 day waiting period from the time a flood insurance policy is purchased to the time of its effective date. More information about flood insurance can be obtained from your insurance agent.
JUST BECAUSE YOUR HOUSE HAS NOT FLOODED IN THE PAST DOES NOT MEAN THAT YOU ARE SAFE.
PROPERTY PROTECTION MEASURES
Retrofitting involves modifications to the building such as elevating it so that floodwater does not enter or reach damageable portions. Constructing barriers between the building and floodwater, dry flood proofing to make the building walls and floor watertight, wet flood proofing to modify the structure and relocate the contents so that when floodwater enters the building, there is little or no damage and preventing basement flooding from sewer backup or sump pump failure. Emergency measures include moving belongings upstairs and sandbagging. More information about flood proofing or retrofitting your home is available at the Brunswick Regional Library on Gloucester Street, the St. Simons Library in the Casino Building or call the Building Inspection Office at 554.7456.
FLOODPLAIN BUILDING PERMIT REQUIREMENTS
Always check with the County Building Division before you build or alter your property in any way. All development in the floodplain, not just construction of new buildings, requires a permit. Illegal development can obstruct the floodplain and create an unsafe situation. For more information about these permits or to report illegal development, call Glynn County Building Inspection at 554.7456.
SUBSTANTIAL IMPROVEMENT
If your home or business is located in the floodplain, the National Flood Insurance program requires that if the cost of reconstruction, rehabilitation, addition or other improvements equals or exceed 50% of the building’s market value, the building must meet the same construction requirements of a new building. Furthermore, if your home or business is located in the floodplain and is damaged by a flood, and the cost of reconstruction or rehabilitation equals or exceeds 50% of the building’s market value, then the building must meet the same construction requirements as a new building. The Glynn County Building Inspection Division maintains improvement information for the life of the building; therefore it is important to call them before you make any alterations to your home or business.
ELEVATION CERTIFICATES
If your home or business is located in the floodplain and you are required to obtain a building permit you must provide an elevation certificate. This form provides the necessary information to ensure structure compliance with Glynn County’s Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance. Glynn County retains all elevation certificates on file.
Resources
For more information contact the Building Inspection Office at 912 554.7456.
Albany, GA, March 15, 1998 -- A FEMA inspector evaluates water damage to the home of a local flood victim. Photo by Andrea Booher/FEMA News Photo
