FLOOD MITIGATION ASSISTANCE (FMA)

Understanding Severe Repetitive Loss (SRL) Properties and Related Programs

What qualifies a property as a Severe Repetitive Loss (SRL) property?
A property may be classified as an SRL property if it meets one of the following criteria:

• The property has experienced 4 or more separate flood claim payments (including building and contents) of $5,000 or more, with a cumulative total exceeding $20,000.
• The property has experienced 2 or more separate building flood claim payments where the total of those payments exceeds the current market value of the structure.

In either case, at least two of these claims must have occurred within a 10-year period, and the claims must be at least 10 days apart.

How can I confirm if my property is an SRL property?
To determine if your property is classified as an SRL property, contact your local floodplain manager. You can find their contact information using the provided link or resources.

What is the Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) grant program?
The Flood Mitigation Assistance grant program is an annual funding initiative available to parishes to support flood risk reduction projects, such as elevating homes. Parishes typically submit grant applications by August. To improve your chances, reach out to your floodplain manager in early spring to express interest and periodically follow up on your status.

What costs are covered by the FMA grant, and what will I need to pay?
The FMA grant program can cover up to 100% of the contract cost. If you have previously received the Road Home elevation incentive or ICC funds, those amounts will be applied toward the contract first, and the grant will cover the remaining balance.

How long does it take to receive funding through the FMA grant program?
Once the grant application is submitted, it typically takes 12 to 24 months for funding approval.

Note: With the passage of the Biggert-Waters Act, Severe Repetitive Loss (SRL) grants have been restructured under the Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) program.

• Homeowners interested in participating compile the necessary documents to be included in the grant application. These may include items such as contractor estimates, an elevation certificate, a document verifying square footage, and a completed homeowner application.
• The parish submits the application for grant funding.
• Once the grant is approved, the parish informs the homeowners.
• The elevation project then moves forward, and work begins.