VA · Region 3

LOMA and LOMR-F in Virginia

Virginia has heavy coastal exposure across Hampton Roads plus inland river risk on the James, Rappahannock, and Potomac. LOMA and LOMR-F volume is high across Tidewater.

LOMA in Virginia

Inland LOMA files often involve properties above mapped Piedmont tributaries.

Read the national LOMA page →

LOMR-F in Virginia

LOMR-F is extensively used in Hampton Roads and Northern Virginia coastal developments.

Read the national LOMR-F page →

Where activity concentrates

Major metros

  • Virginia Beach
  • Norfolk
  • Richmond
  • Chesapeake

Common counties

  • Virginia Beach City
  • Norfolk City
  • Fairfax County

Virginia county guides

Licensing and documentation in Virginia

A Virginia-licensed Professional Land Surveyor or Professional Engineer must prepare elevation documents.

Frequently asked questions about Virginia

Can a property in Virginia qualify for a FEMA LOMA?

Yes, many Virginia properties qualify when the structure or parcel sits on natural high ground above the Base Flood Elevation. Inland LOMA files often involve properties above mapped Piedmont tributaries. 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 Virginia?

A LOMR-F applies when earthen fill created the elevation difference. LOMR-F is extensively used in Hampton Roads and Northern Virginia coastal developments. If fill was used, packaging the file as a LOMA usually creates delay.

Who can prepare an Elevation Certificate in Virginia?

A Virginia-licensed 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 Virginia counties see the most LOMA and LOMR-F activity?

Activity is concentrated in Virginia Beach City, Norfolk City, Fairfax County, driven by coastal flooding and chesapeake bay storm surge.

Does a LOMA in Virginia automatically remove flood insurance?

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

How long does a Virginia LOMA typically take?

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

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

Yes. We review LOMA and LOMR-F files across all Virginia counties, including Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Richmond and surrounding areas. Call (281) 870-4492 to talk through an urgent file.

What documents should Virginia 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.