PA
LOMA and LOMR-F in Delaware County, Pennsylvania
Delaware County sits along the Delaware River in southeastern Pennsylvania, with flood risk from the Delaware River and its tributaries, including Crum Creek, Darby Creek, and Chester Creek. Darby Creek has been particularly problematic, experiencing repeated flooding in communities like Darby and Eastwick. Tropical Storm Ida in 2021 caused severe flash flooding across the county, and the dense suburban development exacerbates stormwater runoff into flood-prone creek valleys.
LOMA in Delaware County
LOMAs are pursued in Delaware County for properties near Crum Creek, Darby Creek, and Chester Creek floodplain edges where the county's terrain provides elevation above the base flood elevation. Properties in Media and other inland communities are common candidates.
Read the national LOMA page →LOMR-F in Delaware County
LOMR-Fs are filed in Delaware County for redevelopment projects where fill or grading raises structures above creek floodplains. The dense suburban development pattern limits opportunities for large-scale fill placement.
Read the national LOMR-F page →Major cities
- • Chester
- • Media
- • Upper Darby
- • Drexel Hill
- • Springfield
- • Havertown
Common flood zones
- • Zone AE
- • Zone A
- • Zone X
Frequently asked questions about Delaware County
Can a property in Delaware County qualify for a FEMA LOMA?
Yes. Properties in Delaware County that sit on natural high ground above the Base Flood Elevation may qualify for a LOMA. LOMAs are pursued in Delaware County for properties near Crum Creek, Darby Creek, and Chester Creek floodplain edges where the county's terrain provides elevation above the base flood elevation. Properties in Media and other inland communities are common candidates. 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 Delaware County?
A LOMR-F applies when earthen fill created the elevation difference at the property. LOMR-Fs are filed in Delaware County for redevelopment projects where fill or grading raises structures above creek floodplains. The dense suburban development pattern limits opportunities for large-scale fill placement. If fill was used, packaging the file as a LOMA usually creates delay.
How long does a LOMA take in Delaware County?
Timing depends on document readiness and whether the case qualifies for the faster eLOMA route. Most Delaware County files move faster when the Elevation Certificate and FEMA correspondence are gathered before submission. A typical LOMA runs 6 to 12 weeks from document gathering through determination.
What does a LOMA cost in Delaware County?
FEMA does not charge a filing fee for a LOMA. The primary costs are the Elevation Certificate and any professional preparation, which vary by surveyor rates in Pennsylvania. Most homeowners spend several hundred to low four figures total.
Does a LOMA in Delaware County remove flood insurance?
A LOMA can change the federal mandatory-purchase requirement, but Pennsylvania lenders and carriers still make their own underwriting decisions. Many homeowners keep voluntary coverage at significantly lower Preferred Risk rates.
Which cities in Delaware County see the most LOMA activity?
LOMA and LOMR-F activity in Delaware County is concentrated around Chester, Media, Upper Darby and surrounding areas. Common flood zones include Zone AE, Zone A, Zone X.
Can FloodMapReview.com help with a LOMA anywhere in Delaware County?
Yes. We review LOMA and LOMR-F files across all of Delaware County, Pennsylvania. Call (281) 870-4492 to talk through an urgent file or start a guided eligibility review online.
What documents should Delaware County 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.