State of Illinois
Flood Damage
Assessment Packet
A cooperative effort by:
Illinois Department of Natural Resources
Office of Water Resources
Illinois Emergency Management Agency
Federal Emergency Management Agency
2008 update
Includes Information On:
Steps to take following a flood
Substantial damage determinations
Blank damage assessment worksheets
FEMA Residential Substantial Damage Estimator (RSDE)
RSDE Field Worksheet
Information on state floodway permit requirements
Sample letter
Sample Notice
Information on mitigation programs
FOLLOWING A FLOOD
All local floodplain ordinances in Illinois require permits for the repair or reconstruction of
flood damaged structures. The local manager must ensure that the repair of a damaged
structure meets the floodplain permit requirements.
Following a flood event, the local administrator should follow these five steps:
Step 1: Contact the Illinois Department of Natural Resources /Office of Water
Resources (IDNR/OWR or the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
Both offices have experience, materials, and guidance to help you carry out your
floodplain management responsibilities. Make use of their help and expertise!
Step 2: Identify those structures believed to be substantially damaged and begin
doing damage assessments. Local officials should tour flooded areas and identify every
structure which has had flooding as well as those with obvious structural damage.
Manufactured homes can be substantially damaged with a as little as one foot of flooding.
Frame buildings typically take two feet or more of flooding. Damaged buildings should be
marked on a map of the community and photographed for future reference.
Tag each structure with the notice included in this packet so residents are aware of the post
flood permit requirements. A sample press release is also included with this packet.
Damage assessments can be difficult. Local officials should inspect every flood damaged
building and calculate the cost of repairs. The FEMA Residential Substantial Damage
Estimator or an IDNR worksheet is available to help make these determinations. Insurance
adjuster estimates can also be used to document the extent of flood damage. The pre-flood
market value of every flooded structure can quickly be estimated from the County
Assessor’s records.
Step 3: Post information for the public on the local ordinance requirements for
obtaining permits for repairs and rebuilding. Often repairs begin on flooded buildings
before the water even recedes from the structure. Therefore, it is very important that this
step take place as soon as possible. History shows that information normally spreads very
fast among flood victims. Posted signs, flyers, notices on damaged structures, press
releases, and letters mailed to individual owners can all be used for this purpose. Educate
yourself on the damage assessment process, reconstruction methods, and available
mitigation programs. Have a “Floodplain Development Permit Application” in hand and
ready to distribute. Keep it simple. Be prepared for residents who are angry that they
cannot start immediate repairs.
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Step 4: Provide technical information to residents on elevation and floodproofing
techniques. Before repairs begin on flood damaged structures is the perfect window of
opportunity to ensure that flood damages do no occur again. If the flood event is a
declared disaster, federal or state mitigation programs are often available. Contact the
Illinois Emergency Management Agency. They are experts on mitigation programs. Flood
Insurance may also provide up to $30,000 to mitigate a substantially damaged flooded
structure. Technical manuals and guidance are available. Public meetings can be
presented in flooded communities to introduce flood victims to the various options
available to them. IDNR/OWR and IEMA will help with these meetings.
Step 5: Implement a permit application procedure. At this point the community
should be on its way to enforcing the floodplain ordinance. Those structures identified as
substantially damaged (more than 50% of the pre-flood market value) should be “redtagged”. Permits should not be issued until the structure is brought into compliance with
floodplain regulations. Those with less than 50% damage can be issued permits to repair.
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SUBSTANTIAL DAMAGE
“THE 50% RULE”
Communities participating in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) have adopted,
and are expected to enforce, a floodplain management ordinance. New structures located
in a floodplain must be elevated above the base (or 100-year) flood elevation. The same
flood protection and elevation regulations also apply to substantially damaged buildings.
SUBSTANTIAL DAMAGE. Whenever a building located in a mapped floodplain area is
damaged from any source (flood, fire, earthquake, wind, or man), the community must
determine if that structure is substantially damaged. A building is substantially damaged
when the cost of repairs are 50% or more of the structure’s “pre-damaged” market value.
If the building is found to be substantially damaged, the structure must be brought into
compliance with the floodplain ordinance (in other words, protected from future flooding
to at least the base flood elevation).
The cost of repairs must be calculated for full repair to “pre-damaged” condition, even if
the owner elects to do less. The total cost of repair includes structural and finish materials
as well as labor.
CUMULATIVE COST. Many communities in Illinois have now adopted ordinances
which track cumulative damages. If a community has adopted this cumulative language,
substantial damage occurs at the point where multiple damages or improvements total 50%
of the original market value of the building.
BUILDING VALUE. Building value is the market value of the structure only. Land and
exterior improvements (pool, landscaping, walkways, etc.) are excluded. Market value can
be determined by using the tax assessed value or a certified appraised building value.
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DETERMINATION OF BUILDING VALUE. Following a disaster most communities
find it simplest and quickest to obtain the assessed value from the County Tax Assessor
and simply use a common multiplier to determine approximate market value. This ensures
a unified market value for everyone (since they have been paying taxes on this figure).
Other acceptable methods of estimating market value include:
Independent appraisals by a professional appraiser.
Detailed estimates of the structure’s Actual Cash Value.
Property appraisals used for tax purposes.
The value of the building based on insurance claims.
Qualified estimates based on sound professional judgement made by staff of the
local building department or local or state tax assessor’s office.
DETERMINATION OF FLOOD DAMAGE. As previously noted, the cost of repairs
must be calculated for full repair to “pre-damaged” condition, even if the owner elects to
do less. The total cost of repair includes structural and finish materials as well as labor.
Items to be included in damage determinations:
All structural elements including:
Foundation footings and pilings
Monolithic or other types of concrete slabs
Bearing walls, tie beams and trusses
Wood or reinforced concrete decking or roofing
Floors and ceilings
Attached decks and porches
Interior partition walls
Exterior wall finishes (e.g. brick, stucco, or siding) including painting and
decorative moldings
Windows and doors
Reshingling or retiling a roof
Hardware
All interior finish elements, including:
Tiling, linoleum, stone, hardwood or carpet over subflooring.
Bathroom tiling and fixtures
Wall finishes (e.g. drywall, painting, stucco, plaster, paneling, marble, or other
decorative finishes)
Kitchen, utility and bathroom cabinets
Built-in bookcases, cabinets, and furniture
Hardware
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All utility and service equipment. including:
Heating, ventilating, and air conditioning equipment
Repair or reconstruction of plumbing and electrical services
Light fixtures and ceiling fans
Security systems
Built-in kitchen appliances
Central vacuum systems
Water filtration, conditioning, or recirculation systems
Also:
Labor, profit, and other costs associated with repairing building components.
ITEMS TO BE EXCLUDED FROM DAMAGE DETERMINATIONS:
Plans, specifications, survey and building permits
Demolition costs associated with clean-up, debris removal, and preparation of the
site
Structural fill for elevating the building
Plug-in type appliances such as washers, dryers, stoves, refrigerators, window air
conditioners, or
dehumidiflers.
Detached structures such as garages, gazebos, and sheds
Fences, sidewalks, and yard lights
Swimming pools
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SAMPLE DAMAGE ASSESSMENT WORKSHEET
1. Address: _____________________________________________________________
2. Owner:_______________________________________________________________
Telephone Number ________________________________
3. Occupant:___________________________________________________________
Telephone Nunber ___________________________
4. Insurance Coverage (Optional):
Company___________________Policy Number:___________________________
Building: $__________________________ Contents: $______________________
5. Special Flood Hazard Area:
Community I.D. #:_____________
FIRM Panel: _________________
FIRM Date:_____________________
Flood zone: __________________
Base Flood Elevation______________
Existing Lowest Floor Elevation: _______________(if available)
6. Duration of Flooding:
Days___________ Hours _______
7. High Water Mark:
A) Exterior Walls
B) Interior Walls
____________ ft.
____________ ft.
8. Type of Structure:
A)
Exterior:
1)
Plywood/Hardboard_____
2)
Stucco_____
3)
Siding/Shingles_____
4)
Masonry Veneer_____
C)
Manufactured/Mobile Home:
1)
Dimensions: a) single wide _____ size ______ x______
b) double wide_____ size ______ x______
2)
Skirting:
yes ______ no_______
9. Description of Structure:
A)
1 story
_______
1 1/2 story
_______
B)
5) Brick_____
6) Concrete Block_____
7) Other describe)________________
Garage:
Carport:
2 story ______
Bi-level ______
attached________
attached________
Tri-level
3 or more
______
______
detached_______
detached_______
C) Roofing:
Metal/corrugated or ribbed _____ Composition shingles ______
Other: Describe _________________________________________
D)
E)
F)
Foundation:
Slab-on-grade _______
Crawlspace _______
Basement
_______ (Finished
Poured walls _______
Block walls_______
Post-piers-piles_______
Unfinished
Heating and Cooling:
Forced air_______
Wall furnace or baseboard _______
Fireplace/wood burning stove _______
Plumbing:
)
Boiler
Heat Pump______
Other
Number of bathrooms: _______
G)
Built-In Appliances:
List: ___________________________________________________
8. Description of Damage:
A) Plumbing: 1) Is it exposed?_______ 2) Does it need repair?_______
B) HVAC/Electrical
1)
Water depth ____ ft.
2)
Damaged ___________ (Repairable _______Replaced
)
Use corresponding numbers given below to answer C-F below:
1. settlement/cracked
2. partially missing
3. sagging
4. dislodged/destroyed
5. submerged
6. include all the above
7. no damage
8. other: describe
C) Foundation
_______
D) Exterior Walls
_______
E) Interior Walls
_______
F) Roof
_______
11. Overall condition of structure:
A) Minor damage
_______
C) Totally destroyed _______
B) Major Damage
D) Structure off foundation
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_______
______
DETERMINATION OF SUBSTANTIAL DAMAGE
Percent Damage =
Cost of Repair
-------------------Value of Building
= ____________________
In the event that the percent damage is equal to or greater than 50%, the building is
substantially damaged.
_______
This building is substantially damaged and therefore must be
elevated or floodproofed so that the lowest floor is protected at or above
the elevation of the base flood.
_______
This building is not substantially damaged. This building can
be repaired without having to be mitigated.
_______
This is a properly elevated structure and may be
reconstructed at its existing elevation.
Reviewed by:____________________________________ Date:________________
Approved by:____________________________________ Date:________________
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THE RESIDENTIAL SUBSTANTIAL DAMAGE ESTIMATOR
FEMA has developed a computer program called the Residential Substantial Damage
Estimator (RSDE) to assist local officials estimate building value and damage costs for
both single family and manufactured homes. This computer program is based on
regulatory requirements of the NFIP and is intended to be used in conjunction with an
industry accepted residential cost estimating guide (such as the Marshall-Swift Guide).
If your community has multiple structures which have been flooded, it is definitely worth
your time to obtain the RSDE and learn to use the program. It will save you much time
and research. Contact FEMA or IDNR/OWR to obtain the RSDE.
Flood Damage Estimator
The RSDE requires the inspector to estimate the percent of damage for various building
components. The information compiled below can be used with the RSDE worksheet for
quickly calculating substantial damage. It is intended to be used as a screening tool so that
the property owner is notified as soon as possible as to the status of his property. It is most
useful after a major disaster when the number of damaged structures tax the ability of the
community to perform these responsibilities or the field inspector is not the person entering
data into the RSDE program. A more detailed assessment may be warranted in certain
circumstances and this can be accomplished on an as needed basis.
Foundation –
Slab on Grade Foundations –
10% damage unless the foundation is undermined.
Damages are related to wall to foundation attachment i.e. anchor bolts.
This number can be revised downward if the inspector is reasonably
assured no damages have occurred.
30% if foundation is undermined
Joist and Pier Foundations
15% damage – for water depths exceeding height of floor
100% damage where building has moved from foundation
This criteria is based on foundations that are substantially intact and do not include
damages caused by subsidence or shifting of the foundation. In some cases hydrodynamic
forces has caused an upheaval in slab on grade foundations. In this circumstance,
individual assessment will be required.
Superstructure
Walls
10% for water depths of 4 feet or less
20% for water depths of more than 4 feet
Structural damage resulting from wind or impact damage
Lineal feet of damage divided by total lineal feet of wall will equal
percentage
Roof damage – total square feet of roof damage divided by square
footage of house will equal percentage
Insulation and Weather-stripping
30% waters less than 4 feet
60% waters greater than 4 feet but less than ceiling height
100% water above ceiling height
Exterior Finish
30% waters less than 4 feet
60% waters greater than 4 feet but less than ceiling height
100% water above ceiling height
These number are based on hydro dynamic forces acting on the exterior walls of the
structure. Some brick or brick veneer structures may have actual damages less than those
shown. The property owner has the responsibility of verifying that the structure has not
sustained damages applicable to this category by submitting a report from a registered
engineer or as an alternative a report from an insurance adjuster.
Interior Finish - based on interior finishes susceptible to flood damage
30% waters less than 4 feet
60% waters greater than 4 feet but less than ceiling height
100% water above ceiling height
Doors, Windows and Shutters
50% waters greater than 2 inches
70% waters greater than 5 feet
$ 70.00 per individual window when other damage occurs
Lumber Finished
100 % waters exceeding 1 inch
Hardware
100% waters exceeding 4 feet
Cabinets and Countertops
20% waters less than 3 inches
70% waters greater than 3 inches less than 4 feet
100% water exceeding 4 feet
Floor Coverings
100% waters greater than ½ inch
20% for ceramic tile, brick, or concrete floors
Plumbing
5% waters less than 2 feet
30% waters between 2’ and 4 feet
50% waters greater than 4 feet if the fixtures are not reused
Floodwater will rarely damage plumbing pipes so this schedule is based on the cost of
plumbing fixtures and the labor to install them
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Electrical
10% waters greater than 2 feet and less than 4 feet
50% waters greater than 4 feet and less than ceiling
100% waters greater than ceiling height
Some communities require the wiring to be replaced if they came in contact with flood
waters. This schedule reflects replacement of fixtures and minimal wiring.
Built in Appliances
100% waters more than 3 feet
Heating and cooling
30% waters less than 3 feet
60% waters greater than 3 feet but less than ceiling height
If A/C unit is located in the attic this number will be reduced to 30%
100% waters greater than ceiling height
Painting
20% waters less than 4 inches
50% waters less than 4 feet
100% waters greater than 4 feet
Reflects interior and exterior painting of the surfaces in contact with the water and areas
where the surfaces are replaced due to damage. This category also includes finishing of
doors and trim that may have been replaced.
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RSDE DAMAGE FIELD INSPECTION WORKSHEET
Single/Multi-Family Site Built Residences
1. Subdivision:___________________________________ Parcel #__________ Lot #__________
2. Elevation of lowest floor:________________________ Datum:__________________________
3. NFIP Community Name:_________________________________________________________
4. Latitude:__________________________ Longitude:___________________________________
5. Owner’s First Name:_________________ Last Name:__________________________________
6. Building Address:_______________________________ City:___________________________
State:___________________ Zip:______________________ Phone #:_______________________
7. County:_______________________________________________________________________
8. Mailing Address:________________________________ City:___________________________
State:___________________ Zip:____________________ Phone #:_________________________
9. Date of Construction:___________________ Date Damage Occurred:____________________
10. Cause Of Damage: (A) Fire
(B) Flood
(C) Fire & Wind
(D) Seismic
(E) Wind
11. Duration of Flooding: (A)________________ hours or (B)_______________ days
12. Description Of Residential Site-Built Modular Structure:
(A) Quality of Construction:
(1) Low___ (2) Fair___ (3) Average___ (4) Good___ (5) Very Good___ (6) Excellent___
(B) 1-story__ 1 ½-story__ 2-story__ More than 2 stories__ 2-Story Bi-level__ Split-level ___
(C) Foundation (check one):
Slab-on-grade____ Basement____ Crawl space____ Piers____ Footings____
(D) Overall Dimensions of building foot print: Size (L)________ ft X (W)________ ft
(E) Walls (check one)
(1) Wood Frame_______ (2) Masonry_______ (3) Concrete Walls_______
(4) Exterior Finish (Type)_______________________________________
(5) Interior Finish (Type)________________________________________
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(F) Roof:
(1) Metal/Corrugated or ribbed:_______ (2) Composition Shingles:_______ (3) Other:_______
(G) Heating/Cooling:
(1) Forced Air_____ (2) Warm and Cooled_____ (3) Wall Furnace_____ (4) Heat Pump_______
(H) Flooring
Floor Covering (Type)___________________________________________________________
(I) Appliances (built-in only). List:______________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
(J) Fireplace: Yes ____ No _____ Quantity _____
(K) Porch/Breezeways: Yes ______ No _______
(L) Garage: Attached Detached No. of cars: _______
Carport: Attached Detached No. of cars: _______
(M) Basement (check one): Finished _______ Unfinished _______
(N) Deck: Yes _______ No _______
13. Name of Inspector: ____________________________________________________________
14. Date of Inspection: _________________________ Time of Inspection: ___________________
15. Phone Number of Inspector (including area code) ___________________________________
16. Description of Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA):
NFIP Community I.D.# _________________ FIRM Panel #: _____________________________
FIRM Suffix: ____________ Date of FIRM Panel: ____________ FIRM Zone: ______________
BFE (NGVD): ____________________
Regulatory Floodway: Yes _______ No _______ Potential _______
17. Flood Depth Above Lowest Floor
(A) Exterior Walls __________ft (B) Interior Walls __________ ft
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18. PERCENT OF DAMAGE FIELD ESTIMATE (for single/multi-family site built homes)
__________% Foundations
__________%Superstructure (Framing/Masonry)
__________% Roofing
__________% Insulation and Weather-stripping
__________% Exterior Finish
__________% Interior Finish (Plaster/Drywall)
__________% Doors, Windows, Shutters
__________% Lumber Finished
__________% Hardware
__________% Cabinets/Countertops
__________% Floor Covering
__________% Plumbing
__________% Electrical
__________% Built-in Appliances
__________% Heating/Cooling (HVAC)
__________% Painting
19. CONDITION OF STRUCTURE: (Check one)
(A) Inundation damage only (B) Minor structural damage (C) Major structural damage
(D) Partially Collapsed (E) Structure Moved Off Foundation (F) Totally Destroyed/Collapsed
20. DESCRIPTION OF DAMAGE: (Answer yes or no)
(A) Plumbing: _____ (1) Exposed _____ (2) In need of repair _____
(B) HVAC/Electrical: ___ (1) Submerged ___ (2) Damaged ___ (3) Repair ___ (4) Replace ____
Use numbers from the right to describe the condition of items C through F:
(C) Foundation _______
(D) Exterior walls _______
(E) Interior walls _______
(F) Roof _______
1. No visible damage
2. Settlement/cracked
3. Partially missing
4. Sagging
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5. Dislodged/Destroyed
6. Submerged
7. Include all of the above
8. Other (explain)____________
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 NOTICE 
Because this building is located in a
floodplain and was damaged by
flooding, a damage assessment must
be conducted by the (village or
county).
Before occupying this building or
doing any repair work you must call
the (village or county) Department
of Zoning and Building Safety at
(___ ) _________ to schedule and
inspection.
Failure to obtain reconstruction
approval may result in a penalty.
SAMPLE PRESS RELEASE
CONTACT:
RELAY:
TDD:
FAX:
217/782-4428
800/526-0844
217/782-9175
217/524-4641
http://dnr.state.il.us
COMMUNITIES IN ILLINOIS WITH FLOOD DAMAGE REMINDED OF
PERMIT REQUIREMENTS
SPRINGFIELD, ILL. - As property owners in Illinois contemplate clean up and
repairs following recent flooding, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources Office of
Water Resources is reminding them to contact local building and zoning officials about
requirements for obtaining local permits before repairing or rebuilding flood-damaged
structures.
The permits are required as part of local government participation in the National
Flood Insurance Program, providing eligibility for flood insurance, flood disaster
assistance, state and federal grants and loans, and buyout funds for flood-prone property.
Local floodplain management ordinances require that permits be obtained for any
construction or development activity in a floodplain area, including the repair or
reconstruction of structures damaged by flooding.
Special conditions apply to substantially damaged buildings - those in which the
total cost of repairs is 50 percent or more of the structure’s pre-flood market value. If a
building is found to be substantially damaged, regulations require that repairs not begin
until compliance with the local floodplain ordinance is demonstrated. In some cases, that
may require repairs that include elevating or flood-proofing the structure to reduce the
potential for future flood damage.
Repair costs must be calculated by assuming the building will be fully repaired to
its pre-damaged condition, even if the owner decides to do less. The total cost calculation
must include structural materials, finish materials and labor, even if the owner chooses to
do his or her own repairs. Many communities in Illinois now track cumulative damages
caused by multiple flood events.
State and federal assistance may be available to property owners to reduce the
chances of future flood damage. Mitigation assistance may cover costs of relocation, or for
elevating or purchasing flood-damaged structures. Flood insurance may also provide up to
$30,000 to protect a structure from future flood damage.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency and the IDNR work with local
communities on floodplain ordinance enforcement to try to reduce the chances and costs of
future flood damages.
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Property owners and residents with flood-damaged buildings should contact their
local building and zoning administrator for more information on repair and reconstruction
permits. For more information on floodplain management and flood insurance issues,
contact the Illinois Department of Natural Resources Office of Water Resources, One
Natural Resources Way, Springfield, IL, 62702-1271, or phone 217/782-4428, SBC Relay
800/526-0844, TDD 217/782-9175.
###
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SAMPLE DAMAGE DETERMINATION LETTER
06/12/2000
John & Jane Q. Public
1234 Flooded-By-The-River Rd.
Deepwater Il 61000
RE: Substantial Damage
1234 Flooded-By-The-River Rd.
Dear Mr. And Mrs. Public,
Subsequent to the recent flooding event, a damage assessment has been completed on the property referenced
above. This is a part of _____(insert community name)________ ’s floodplain management responsibilities in
order to maintain the availability of flood insurance and disaster assistance to residents. The following
information relates to the address referenced above:
Community Number:
Parcel Zone Information:
Fair Market Value:
Flood Damage:
June 2008
Total damages
Percent Damaged:
Ordinance Requirement:
170XXX
Zone A
$31,226 (based on 3.1 x assessed value)
$18,864
$18,864
60.4%
Mitigation (elevation, removal)
The determination is that this structure is declared Substantially Damaged and must be brought into
compliance with the ___(insert community name)_____ Floodplain Ordinance prior to repair and reoccupation.
For this structure to be in compliance with the ordinance, the structure must be elevated, moved outside the
floodplain or demolished.
Building inspections, Building Permits, and an Elevation Certificate will be required prior to the issuance of a
Certificate of Occupancy. This structure may NOT be occupied until these corrections are made. Please contact
this office at your earliest convenience to make an appointment with me to discuss your upcoming project. If
you have any additional questions, you may feel free to give me a call at xxx-xxxx.
Sincerely,
Your Name and title
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July 2008
STATE PERMIT FLOOD RECOVERY REGULATORY ISSUES
Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Office of Water Resources (IDNR/OWR) permits are required only in
the floodway portion of jurisdictional streams. Under the Rivers, Lakes and Streams Act (615 ILCS 5), the
IDNR/OWR regulates construction within public bodies of water and within floodways of streams in urban
areas with drainage areas of one (1) square mile or more and streams in rural areas with drainage areas of ten
(10) square miles or more. The floodway is the stream channel and the portion of the adjacent floodplain area
that is needed to safely store and convey flood waters. Where floodways have been delineated for regulatory
purposes, the mapped lines show the floodway limits and will be used. For cases where a floodway has not
been delineated, the whole 100-year frequency floodplain is regulated. The rules and application form may be
viewed on and downloaded from our regulatory website: http://dnr.state.il.us/owr/resman/permitprogs.htm
PLEASE NOTE: The local community should always be contacted to ensure compliance with local floodplain
development requirements.
Replacing or Repairing Damaged Buildings
IDNR/OWR permits are required to replace buildings or make modifications to existing buildings which would
increase their outside dimensions. An application for permit should be submitted including a completed
application form and plans showing the location and dimensions of both the old and proposed buildings. If the
footprint of the replacement structure is no larger than that of the old, a permit will be issued soon after receipt
of the application. Replacement buildings larger than the old structure may be permissible depending on the
size, location and the potential for cumulative adverse affects on the stream’s flood carrying capacity. Those
projects will generally require additional data and review time and may not receive approval.
Raising Existing Buildings
The raising of existing buildings, provided no changes are made to the outside dimensions of the building and
provided the proposed raising would not involve the placement of fill to accomplish the raising, is authorized by
IDNR/OWR Statewide Permit No. 6. This and other statewide permits may be viewed at:
http://dnr.state.il.us/owr/resman/permitprogs.htm. For projects meeting the terms and conditions of a statewide
permit, it is not necessary to submit applications to, or receive individual permits from, IDNR/OWR.
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Repair/Replacement of Infrastructure and Other Structures
If a structure in a public body of water or jurisdictional floodway is to be totally replaced or reconstructed, a
permit will be required but will be authorized quickly upon receipt of a completed permit application
demonstrating that the structure is being replaced in kind or with a structure that is no more obstructive to river
navigation or flood flows. To replace bridge and culvert crossings that have been the cause of demonstrable
flood damage, it will need to be demonstrated that the replacement crossing has been designed to reduce the
induced flood damages to the fullest practicable extent. IDNR/OWR authorization is not required for the repair
of structures that are basically still intact, bridge deck replacement or the replacement of appurtenant
navigation structures such as mooring cells at existing barge loading facilities.
Levee Repair
Repairs which reestablish the levee to its original alignment and top elevation do not require IDNR/OWR
authorization. For any levee work involving a change in the alignment or top elevation, information should be
submitted to IDNR/OWR for review and determination of permit requirements. Please provide your name and
contact information, a map showing the location of the levee and approximate location of the damaged
section(s), any available information on the historic (pre-July 1, 1985), existing and proposed levee profiles and
a brief description of the planned repairs.
Removal of Flood-Deposited Debris and Sediment
The removal of debris does not require IDNR/OWR authorization, but the material should be disposed outside
of the floodway or where it will not obstruct flood flows or be liable to washing into a stream. Flood-deposited
sediment may be removed from stream floodways and all previously improved stream channels and drainage
ditches without a permit. Statewide Permit No. 11 authorizes maintenance dredging on up to 1,000 foot
lengths of natural stream channels and for marinas, barge terminals, water intakes and other public water
facilities. This and other statewide permits may be viewed at:
http://dnr.state.il.us/owr/resman/permitprogs.htm. If the excavated/dredged material is not to be used to
restore scoured areas to pre-flood conditions or removed from the floodway, information should be submitted
to IDNR/OWR for review and determination of permit requirements. Please provide your name and contact
information, a map and drawings showing the locations and dimensions of the sediment deposits and
proposed disposal areas.
Restoration of Altered Streams and Scoured Floodways
Stream channels that have changed course and floodways that have been scoured as a result of the 2008
floods may be restored to 2008 pre-flood conditions without IDNR/OWR authorization. Additionally, certain
channel stabilization and channel maintenance activities are authorized by IDNR/OWR Statewide Permit Nos.
9 & 11. These and other statewide permits may be viewed at:
http://dnr.state.il.us/owr/resman/permitprogs.htm. Individual permits are required for other channel
modification and floodway regrading projects on jurisdictional streams.
IDNR/OWR Contact Information
Regulatory Programs Website:
Telephone:
Facsimile:
http://dnr.state.il.us/owr/resman/permitprogs.htm
217/782-3863
217/785-5014
22
Mitigation Grant Programs
BUILDING STRONGER AND SAFER
The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s
(FEMA’s) Mitigation Grant programs provide funding
for eligible mitigation activities that reduce losses and
protect life and property from future disaster damages.
Currently, FEMA administers the Hazard Mitigation
Grant Program, the Flood Mitigation Assistance
Program, the Pre-Disaster Mitigation Program, the
Repetitive Flood Claims Program, and the Severe
Repetitive Loss Program.
HAZARD MITIGATION GRANT PROGRAM
(HMGP)
http://www.fema.gov/government/grant/hmgp/index
Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) funds are
available following a Presidential disaster declaration.
Eligible applicants include States, local governments,
and some private non-profit organizations. Communities
may apply for HMGP assistance on behalf of affected
individuals and businesses, and all funds must be used to
reduce or eliminate losses from future disasters.
Examples of projects include:
o
o
o
o
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Elevating flood-prone homes or businesses
Acquiring (and either demolishing or relocating)
flood-prone homes from willing owners and
returning the property to open space
Retrofitting buildings to minimize damage from
high winds, flooding, earthquakes, and other
hazards
Implementing minor flood control projects to
protect critical facilities
Constructing safe rooms inside schools or other
build-ings in tornado-prone areas
HMGP funding is allocated using the percentage of the
funds spent on disaster assistance for each Presidentially
declared disaster. For States with a Standard State
Mitigation Plan, the formula provides 15 percent of the
first $2 billion of estimated aggregate amounts of
disaster assistance; 10 percent for the next portion of
amounts between $2 billion and $10 billion; and 7.5
percent for the next portion of amounts between $10
billion and $35.333 billion.
Grant applications are submitted to the Illinois
Emergency Management Agency, which sets mitigation
priorities and awards grants based on available funding
and State criteria. FEMA conducts the final eligibility
review to ensure that all projects are compliant with
Federal regulations, including the Federal law that requires States and communities to have FEMA-approved
mitigation plans in place prior to receipt of HMGP
project funds. A mitigation plan must identify hazards,
assess community needs, and describe a communitywide strategy for reducing risks associated with natural
disasters.
FLOOD MITIGATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
(FMA)
http://www.fema.gov/government/grant/fma/index
The Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) Program provides funding to States and communities for measures
that reduce or eliminate the long-term risk of flood
damage to buildings, manufactured homes, and other
structures insured under the National Flood Insurance
Program (NFIP). The program provides grants for
mitigation planning and projects with a goal of reducing
claims under the NFIP:
Planning grants are used to assess flood risks and
develop Flood Mitigation Plans to reduce the risks.
Project grants are used to implement mitigation
activities that reduce flood losses to NFIP insured
properties by elevating, acquiring, and demolishing or
relocating NFIP-insured buildings. Project grants are
available to NFIP-participating communities that have a
Flood Mitigation Plan in place.
Technical Assistance grants help States and
communities develop viable FMA applications and
implement projects.
PRE-DISASTER MITIGATION PROGRAM (PDM)
http://www.fema.gov/government/grant/pdm/index
The Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM) Program is a
nationally competitive program that provides funds to
States and communities, for hazard mitigation planning
and implementation of mitigation projects prior to a
disaster event. The PDM Program provides applicants
with an opportunity to raise risk awareness and reduce
disaster losses through cost-effective hazard mitigation
activities. Communities and States must have FEMAapproved mitigation plans in order to receive project
grant funds.
Eligible PDM activities include:
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
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Elevation of existing public or private structures
Localized flood control projects that are
designed specifically to protect critical facilities
Protective measures for utilities
Relocation of public or private structures
Stormwater management projects
Vegetation management for natural dune
restoration, wildfire, or snow avalanche
Structural and non-structural retrofitting
Construction of safe rooms for public and
private structures
Voluntary acquisition of real property
REPETITIVE FLOOD CLAIMS GRANT
PROGRAM (RFC)
http://www.fema.gov/government/grant/rfc/index
The Repetitive Flood Claims (RFC) Grant Program is
designed to reduce or eliminate the long-term risk of
flood damage to structures that are insured under the
NFIP and have had one or more claim payment(s) for
flood damages. RFC funds may only be used to mitigate
structures located within a State or community that is
participating in the NFIP and cannot meet the
requirements of the FMA program due to lack of cost
share or lack of capacity to manage the activities.
Project grants are available for acquisition, structure
demolition, or structure relocation with the property
deed restricted for open space uses in perpetuity.
The RFC grants are awarded to applicants on a
nationwide basis without reference to State allocations,
quotas, or other formula-based allocations. All grants are
eligible for up to 100 percent Federal assistance.
Awards will be prioritized to fund acquisitions that
create the greatest amount of savings to the NFIF based
on a benefit-cost analysis. A FEMA-approved State or
enhanced hazard mitigation plan is required for
eligibility; however, a local plan is not required. All
properties must be insured at the time of application.
SEVERE REPETITIVE LOSS PROGRAM
http://www.fema.gov/government/grant/srl/index
The Severe Repetitive Loss (SRL) Program provides
funds to assist States, and local governments
participating in the NFIP in reducing or eliminating the
long-term flood risks to severe repetitive loss properties,
thus reducing outlays from the National Flood Insurance
Fund (NFIF). Severe repetitive loss was defined by the
Flood Insurance Reform Act (FIRA) of 2004. For a
property to be designated SRL, it must:
Be a residential property currently insured under the
National Flood Insurance Program
Have incurred flood losses that resulted in either (1) four
or more flood insurance claims payments that each
exceeded $5,000 with at least two of the payments
occurring within a 10-year period, or (2) two or more
flood insurance claims payments that cumulatively
exceeded the value of the property
SRL funds will be allocated annually to States,
Territories, and Tribes based on the number of severe
repetitive loss properties in their respective jurisdictions.
Eligible SRL activities include:
Elevation, relocation, or demolition of existing
residential properties
Floodproofing measures for historical properties
Minor physical localized flood control projects
Demolition and rebuilding of properties to at least the
Base Flood Elevation (BFE) or greater if required by any
local ordinance
Grants are eligible for up to a 75 percent Federal cost
share. The non-Federal cost share may be adjusted to 10
percent if the applicant has a FEMA-approved State
mitigation plan that also addresses how the State has and
will continue to reduce the number of severe repetitive
loss properties.
Protect Your Home From Flood Damages
In Illinois, it is estimated that there are
over 250,000 buildings located in
floodplains. Floods are by far the most
common natural disaster in Illinois,
accounting for well over 90% of the
declared disasters. Annual damages
due to flooding average nearly $300
million dollars. Unfortunately, much of
this flood damage occurs on the same
properties over and over again. For
this reason, flood insurance coverage
now pays to mitigate these properties
to reduce the chances of future
flooding.
The two most common types of
ICC mitigation used in Illinois are:
Relocation:
• Relocating structures to higher
ground or purchasing flood prone
property is the safest way to protect
against flooding and reduce the
liability and cost to the community.
• Relocating initially can be expensive
in the long run it can be less
expensive than repetitive flood
damages or high flood insurance
premiums
Increased Cost of Compliance
(ICC) Program:
Elevation:
• provides up to $30,000 in addition to
flood insurance claims.
• Three methods to elevate:
• ICC can be used to floodproof,
relocate, elevate, demolish (F.R.E.D.)
Constructing on crawlspace,
Elevating on compacted fill, or
• structure must be located in a
floodplain
• structure must have a flood
insurance policy in effect
Illinois has the nation’s largest inland
system of rivers, lakes and streams
• structure must be determined to be
substantially damaged (or
cumulatively damaged) by flooding
beyond 50% of the value of when the
damaged occurred.
Elevating on piles or piers.
• Elevation method is dependent on
the structure’s condition, flood hazard,
local floodplain regulations, and
owner’s financial condition.
• When elevating, it is essential for all
utilities (air conditioner, water heater,
furnace, etc.) to be elevated at or
above the Flood Protection Elevation.
• bring structure into compliance with
F.R.E.D
A repetitively flooded home in Rock Island County, Illinois used an ICC claim to reduce
the chance of future flooding.
For more information contact:
Illinois NFIP Coordinating Office
at (217) 782-3863 or
Illinois State Hazard Mitigation Office
at (217) 782-8719
FEMA at http://www.fema.gov/nfip/icc.shtm
Home Moving and Elevation Contractors
1 Peters House
& Building Movers
R.R. #1 Box 114
Farmer City, IL 61842
(309) 928-2532
2. MCE Home Movers
1637 East 800 North Rd.
Loda, IL 60948
mcemoving@yahoo.com
217-379-2955 – office
217- 519-0244 – cell
3. Lyle Hyatt and Company
House Movers
612 Green Street
Sandwich, IL
815-786-6591
4. Balagna House Moving, Inc.
21529 E. Illinois Highway 116
Farmington, IL 61531
(309) 245-4486
5. Greene County Steel
Eldred, IL 62027
(618) 576-9730
6. Louvier’s Construction Inc.
1038 Urna Drive
St. Louis, MO 63301
(636) 250-3189
*elevation only
7. Expert House Movers
7144 Pershing Avenue
St. Louis, MO 63130
(314) 727-2722
Or
(800) 305-8939
This list includes contractors who have done ICC elevation projects in the past. It is not a complete list and does not
imply an endorsement by the State of Illinois. Consult your phonebook for local contractors.