Audience
For surveyors and engineers
Help licensed professionals gather the right file details for LOMA, LOMR-F, and eLOMA-related work.
Surveyors and engineers often enter the process after a property owner, lender, or agent needs technical support. This page focuses on the information needed to assess the route quickly and move into the right document set.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between eLOMA and a standard LOMA submission?
eLOMA is an automated determination within Online LOMC available only to registered Licensed Professionals for qualifying natural-grade cases. It can return a determination in minutes rather than weeks. Standard LOMA submissions go through the full FEMA review queue.
How does a surveyor register as a Licensed Professional for eLOMA?
Registration happens through the Online LOMC portal. FEMA verifies the license credentials and, once approved, the professional can access the eLOMA workflow for eligible cases. Registration requirements include an active, valid state license.
When should an engineer recommend LOMR-F instead of LOMA?
Whenever field evidence shows that imported earthen fill created the elevation difference. Common indicators include visible grade breaks between the pad and adjacent natural ground, retaining structures, and development grading records showing imported material.
What datum issues cause the most problems in LOMA submissions?
Mismatches between the Elevation Certificate datum and the effective FIRM datum are the most common technical error. NAVD 88 is standard for most current FIRMs, but older maps may reference NGVD 29. The conversion must be applied correctly or FEMA will request additional information.
Can a surveyor submit a LOMA on behalf of the property owner?
Yes. Licensed professionals can submit through Online LOMC as the authorized representative. The submission identifies both the professional preparer and the property owner. The professional takes responsibility for the accuracy of the technical content.
What supporting narrative should accompany an Elevation Certificate?
A brief professional narrative explaining the site conditions, confirming natural grade versus fill, noting any relevant development history, and identifying the relationship between the measured elevations and the effective BFE strengthens the submission and reduces requests for additional information.
How should engineers handle pre-FIRM fill determinations?
Fill placed before the community's initial FIRM effective date may be treated as natural ground in some contexts, potentially qualifying the case as a LOMA rather than LOMR-F. This determination requires careful analysis of FIRM effective dates, community ordinances, and fill placement records.