What You Need to Know About CRS
Everything you need to know about the Community Rating System, FPIP Compliance, and more.
Overview
Flooding impacts more individuals in the United States than any other hazard. As a result, many municipalities rely on flood insurance to address the risk posed by flooding to their communities. If you’re interested in the Community Rating System (CRS), it’s more than likely that you know that most of the flood insurance in the U.S. is provided by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), which is, in turn, administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
NFIP policies are federally backed and flood insurance is required for all properties with a mortgage in high-risk flood zones. The importance of flood insurance and its role in shaping local-level resilience is non-disputable. Communities now are increasingly seeking innovative ways of solving both the physical and economic tolls of flooding. One way of addressing these issues is by using the CRS. FEMA created the CRS as a way to diminish the rising cost of flood insurance in at-risk communities.
The CRS Explained
The Community Rating System (CRS) is a voluntary incentive program that encourages community floodplain management practices, which exceed the minimum requirements of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Over 1,500 communities participate nationwide. And, In fact communities may see rate reductions of 5%-45%.
In CRS communities, flood insurance premium rates are discounted to reflect the reduced flood risk resulting from the community’s efforts that address the three goals of the program:
- Reduce and avoid flood damage to insurable property
- Strengthen and support the insurance aspects of the National Flood Insurance Program
- Foster comprehensive floodplain management
Which Communities Are Involved With Their Local CRS?
FEMA’s CRS Appendix F has more detailed information, but CRS communities are found nation-wide. In fact, many CRS communities are considerably inland, rather than being riverine or coastal. Approximately 50% of all CRS communities receive a 10%-17% reduction annually on flood insurance. Small communities benefit just as much as larger ones, which is why your community should apply, regardless of its size (FEMA.gov).
See Who Participates in the CRS
FEMA publishes a list of CRS participating communities in April and October each year. Download a list of current and future participating communities here: https://www.fema.gov/floodplain-management/community-rating-system
Why Should My Community Participate in the CRS?
There are quite a few reasons why enrolling in the CRS can be beneficial. But, we’ll list a few key reasons here:
Reduce Flood Insurance Premiums
Participation in the CRS has the potential to make flood insurance premiums affordable for residents. Therefore, they’re more likely to recover from a large emergency event.
Flood Mitigation Services
Flood mitigation services offered by the community rating system include open space preservation, public outreach and flood mitigation benefits.
Save Money & Be Safer
Your community will save money, and be safer – it’s not hard to see why, but the CRS is a popular solution. Allow your community to benefit financially, and also decrease the risk of a serious flooding disaster.
What is a Certified Floodplain Manager Program?
The certification program lays the foundation for ensuring that highly qualified individuals are available to meet the challenge of breaking the damage/rebuild cycle on the nation’s human, financial and natural resources. – Association of State Floodplain Managers
Click here to learn more about the Certified Floodplain Manager program
I'd Like to Learn More About the CRS
For information to get started, Lori Lehr Inc. is here to walk you through the process.
With 25+ years of experience Lori Lehr Inc. can consult on any issues you’re having or answer any questions you have. To read more, go to About Lori to read her success stories and see exactly how much she’s saved communities in recent years.
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