PA · Region 3

LOMA and LOMR-F in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania's flood footprint is large and varied. The Susquehanna, Delaware, and Schuylkill rivers drive Eastern PA activity while the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio rivers dominate Western PA.

LOMA in Pennsylvania

LOMA files often involve structures on natural terraces above mapped river corridors.

Read the national LOMA page →

LOMR-F in Pennsylvania

LOMR-F cases appear in suburban developments where pads were raised.

Read the national LOMR-F page →

Where activity concentrates

Major metros

  • Philadelphia
  • Pittsburgh
  • Allentown
  • Erie

Common counties

  • Philadelphia County
  • Allegheny County
  • Montgomery County

Pennsylvania county guides

Licensing and documentation in Pennsylvania

A Pennsylvania Professional Land Surveyor or Professional Engineer must prepare elevation documents.

Frequently asked questions about Pennsylvania

Can a property in Pennsylvania qualify for a FEMA LOMA?

Yes, many Pennsylvania properties qualify when the structure or parcel sits on natural high ground above the Base Flood Elevation. LOMA files often involve structures on natural terraces above mapped river corridors. A specialist review can confirm whether the property matches the LOMA pattern before you order new survey work.

When is a LOMR-F the right path in Pennsylvania?

A LOMR-F applies when earthen fill created the elevation difference. LOMR-F cases appear in suburban developments where pads were raised. If fill was used, packaging the file as a LOMA usually creates delay.

Who can prepare an Elevation Certificate in Pennsylvania?

A Pennsylvania Professional Land Surveyor or Professional Engineer must prepare elevation documents. FloodMapReview.com can review an existing Elevation Certificate or connect you with a qualified professional if new survey work is needed.

Which Pennsylvania counties see the most LOMA and LOMR-F activity?

Activity is concentrated in Philadelphia County, Allegheny County, Montgomery County, driven by riverine flooding from the susquehanna, delaware, ohio, and schuylkill rivers.

Does a LOMA in Pennsylvania automatically remove flood insurance?

Not automatically. A LOMA can change the federal mandatory-purchase requirement, but Pennsylvania lenders and insurance carriers still make underwriting decisions. A Pennsylvania homeowner may still choose to keep voluntary coverage.

How long does a Pennsylvania LOMA typically take?

Timing depends on document readiness and whether the case qualifies for the faster professional-submitted eLOMA route. Most Pennsylvania files move faster when the Elevation Certificate and FEMA correspondence are gathered before submission.

Can FloodMapReview.com help with a LOMA anywhere in Pennsylvania?

Yes. We review LOMA and LOMR-F files across all Pennsylvania counties, including Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown and surrounding areas. Call (281) 870-4492 to talk through an urgent file.

What documents should Pennsylvania homeowners gather first?

Start with the property address, current flood zone or lender determination, any existing Elevation Certificate or survey, prior FEMA correspondence, and a lender or insurance notice if one triggered the review. Upload what you have and a specialist will identify the next step.

Reviewed by

FloodMapReview Engineering

Licensed P.E. and CFM team, FloodMapReview.com

FloodMapReview Engineering is a team of licensed Professional Engineers and Certified Floodplain Managers who have reviewed hundreds of LOMA, LOMR-F, eLOMA, and Online LOMC files across the United States. The team specializes in helping homeowners, buyers, lenders, and surveyors navigate the FEMA flood map amendment process. FloodMapReview engineers personally review every case for eligibility, ensure Elevation Certificates and supporting documents meet FEMA standards, and guide clients from initial assessment through final determination.