Basement & PFE Restricted Area Overview
General explanation of basement and Post-FIRM Elevated restricted-area coverage limitations.
General Rule
- Basements and areas below the lowest elevated floor of Post-FIRM Elevated buildings are subject to special SFIP coverage restrictions.
- Finished items may be limited or excluded even when physically damaged by floodwater.
- Coverage depends on the policy, building type, area classification, and the specific item damaged.
Commonly Restricted or Problem Areas
- Finished wall materials, trim, cabinets, floor coverings, finished bathroom or kitchen features, and other finish items may be limited or not payable in restricted areas.
- Drywall allowances may be limited depending on the applicable SFIP provisions and current claim guidance.
- Mechanical and utility items may be evaluated differently from finish materials.
Basement Guidance Resource
This quick-reference basement graphic summarizes the SFIP basement definition, limited covered basement property, limited basement contents, and common non-insured basement property categories.
Added Basement / PFE Downloadables
Additional uploaded resources have been added for basement and Post-FIRM Elevated restricted-area guidance.
To download this guide as a PDF, click the button and choose “Save as PDF” in your browser’s print options.
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