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Why is the NFIP extending PRP eligibility? What led to this decision?

Before 2003, more than 70 percent of the nation's flood maps were at least ten years old. Those maps were developed using what is now outdated technology, and more importantly, many no longer accurately reflect the current flood hazards. Congress passed a law and appropriated funds in 2003 directing FEMA to create the five-year Flood Map Modernization program, which used more current data and technology to update the maps. Consequently, many property owners are finding their buildings have been accurately mapped into higher risk areas. Aging flood control infrastructure, including levees, dams, and other structures, have also resulted in large numbers of properties being newly mapped into SFHAs, where they are required by lenders to purchase flood insurance.

Now, flood map revisions will continue as part of FEMA's Risk MAP (Mapping, Assessment, Planning) program as it builds on the successes and work of Flood Map Modernization (for more details visit: www.fema.gov/plan/prevent/fhm/rm_main.shtm).

While map changes more accurately reflect a community's flood risk, FEMA recognizes the financial hardship that SFHA designation may place on individuals in newly identified high-risk flood zones and is, therefore, extending the eligible time period for low-cost PRPs.

Back to Frequently Asked Questions: Preferred Risk Policy (PRP) Eligibility Extension