Flood Insurance Fact Sheets

Attached are FEMA fact sheets dealing with various aspects of flood insurance that may be useful to residents in filing claims.  More information can also be found at:  FloodSmart.gov or FEMA National Flood Insurance Program.femagov125

East Lyme has received updated flood hazard maps as part of the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) nationwide Map Modernization Program.  The New London County maps became effective on August 5, 2013. Property owners are encouraged to view the maps and know the risks.

Flood hazard maps, also known as DFIRMs, indicate whether properties are in areas of high, moderate or low flood risk. In reviewing the New London County maps, many property owners may find that their risk is higher or lower than they thought.  If the risk level for a property changes, so may the requirement to carry flood insurance.

Those who have a federally backed mortgage, or plan to refinance with a federally backed lender, are required to purchase flood insurance if their home is shown in a high-risk flood area known as a Special Flood Hazard Area on the updated maps.   Residents are urged to contact their insurance agent or visit FloodSmart.gov to learn more about how and where to get a policy.

There are many ways to protect a property from flood damage, including but not limited to the following:

  • Demolish the building or relocate it out of harm’s way;
  • Elevate the building above the flood level;
  • Elevate damage-prone components, such as the furnace or air conditioning unit;
  • Dry floodproof the building so water cannot get into it;
  • Wet floodproof portions of the building so water won’t cause damage;
  • Construct a berm or redirect drainage away from the building;
  • Maintain nearby streams, ditches, and storm drains so debris does not obstruct them; and
  • Correct sewer backup problems.

There are several qualified people at the Town of East Lyme that can talk to you about flood hazard, flood protection measures, and/or possible financial assistance.

Residents should look at the new flood maps to both become familiar with the flood risks in their community and to see whether their flood zone has changed.  The maps can be viewed at East Lyme Town Hall and at FEMA Flood Map Service Center. In addition, East Lyme residents are strongly encouraged to contact their insurance agent, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), or the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection (CT DEP) for additional information or you may visit the following web sites: