How the Regular National Flood Insurance Program Works

This article was edited and reviewed by FindLaw Attorney Writers | Last reviewed March 26, 2008

The Regular Program

A community participating in the Regular Phase of the NFIP is usually provided with a Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) and a detailed engineering study, termed a Flood Insurance Study (FIS) is often conducted. Under the Regular Phase of the NFIP, more comprehensive floodplain management requirements are imposed on the community in exchange for higher amounts of flood insurance coverage.

FEMA authorizes the sale of additional flood insurance in the community up to the Regular Program limits.
Community implements adopted floodplain management measures.
FEMA arranges for periodic community assistance visits with local officials to provide technical assistance regarding complying with NFIP floodplain management requirements.
Local officials may request flood map updates as needed. FEMA evaluates requests, encourages cost-sharing, and issues revised maps as priorities dictate.

Regular Program
Flood Insurance Coverage
Building Coverage	Basic Insurance Limits	Additional Insurance Limits	Total Insurance Available
Single Family Dwelling	$ 50,000	$200,000	$250,000
2-4 Family Dwelling	$ 50,000	$200,000	$250,000
Other Residential	$135,000	$115,000	$250,000
Non-Residential or Small Business	$135,000	$365,000	$500,000
Contents Coverage (per unit)	Basic Insurance Limits	Additional Insurance Limits	Total Insurance Available
Residential	$ 15,000	$ 85,000	$100,000
Non-Residential or Small Business	$115,000	$385,000	$500,000

Updated: 9/9/1998

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How the Regular National Flood Insurance Program Works

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