Why This Guide Matters
If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve heard the phrase “Repetitive Loss property”
— and maybe you’ve even been told your home is on FEMA’s list.
But here’s the problem:
- No one explains what it actually means.
- You’re stuck with rising insurance premiums.
- And if you try to sell the home, buyers run scared.
This guide is here to fix that.
We created it for homeowners, buyers, and real estate professionals who are trying
to understand what it means to be on the Repetitive Loss (or Severe Repetitive Loss)
list — and what options still exist.
You’re not alone.
You’re not powerless.
And yes — in some cases, you can get off the list.
These homes represent a disproportionate amount of flood claims. Some years,
1% of properties make up over 25% of payouts.
FEMA considers these homes “proven risk.”
Upfront Payment at Closing
SRL properties often require the entire flood premium paid upfront — which
can scare off buyers or break deals entirely.
Private Market Limitations
Many private insurers won’t cover SRL properties, or will quote extremely high
rates.
Selling a Repetitive Loss Property
You can sell a home on the list — but it takes prep
Why Deals Fall Through
- Buyer’s agent can’t get a quote
- Premium is higher than expected
- Buyer doesn’t want to pay flood in full at closing
What To Do
- Disclose early — don’t wait for underwriting
- Get a flood quote in advance
- Offer mitigation documentation
- Use a flood insurance expert, not just any agent
PRO TIP:
Most agents aren’t directly appointed with FEMA. If they only work
through “Write-Your-Own” carriers, they may not be able to issue an
NFIP quote for an SRL property.
Can You Be Removed from the List?
Can you fight it?
Yes — but it takes time and documentation.
FEMA doesn’t remove you automatically.
To Be Considered For Removal:
-
No recent claims (usually 10+ years)
-
Risk has changed (new infrastructure, zone change)
-
You’ve mitigated (elevated, added vents, floodproofed)
-
You can prove past flooding no longer applies
You’ll Need:
-
Elevation certificate
-
Photos + receipts of floodproofing
-
Claims history
-
Letter of Map Amendment (if zone has changed)
-
Letter from your community floodplain manager
FEMA may take 6–18 months to review a removal request
Simplifying flood insurance for your needs
Flooding is more than just water damage—it’s
financial uncertainty, rising insurance costs,
and, for some, the challenge of owning a
Repetitive Loss (RL) or Severe Repetitive Loss
(SRL) property.
If you’ve made it to the end of this guide, you’re
already ahead of the game. You’re taking
control of your situation, and that’s the first
step toward protecting your home, your
investment, and your peace of mind.
www.floodinsuranceguru.com
(205) 451-4294
flood@floodinsuranceguru.com
Simplifyingflood insurancefor your needs.
We welcome any questions and additional
information you need for your flood
insurance.
Chris Greene
At The Flood Insurance Guru, we’ve spent
years helping homeowners, buyers, and real
estate professionals navigate flood insurance
challenges — from rising premiums to
confusing flood zone changes.
This guide exists to give you clear, practical
answers so you can make informed decisions.
Need help reviewing your property,
exploring insurance options, or preparing
for a sale?
We’re here for you—no scare tactics, just real
solutions.
Chris Greene, President
The Flood Insurance Guru
