VA
LOMA and LOMR-F in Chesapeake, Virginia
Chesapeake is a large independent city in southeastern Virginia that includes a significant portion of the Great Dismal Swamp and is drained by tributaries of the Elizabeth River and the North Landing River. The city's flat, low-lying terrain and high water table create persistent flooding challenges from both tidal influences and poor stormwater drainage. Nor'easters and tropical systems can push Chesapeake Bay surge up the Elizabeth River tributaries into residential areas.
LOMA in Chesapeake
LOMAs are pursued in Chesapeake for properties near Elizabeth River tributaries and the North Landing River where ground elevation exceeds the mapped base flood elevation. Properties in the Deep Creek and Great Bridge areas are common LOMA candidates.
Read the national LOMA page →LOMR-F in Chesapeake
LOMR-Fs are filed in Chesapeake for residential developments where fill is placed to raise structures above the mapped floodplain, particularly in the city's expanding southern and western growth areas.
Read the national LOMR-F page →Major cities
- • Chesapeake
Common flood zones
- • Zone AE
- • Zone A
- • Zone X
Frequently asked questions about Chesapeake
Can a property in Chesapeake qualify for a FEMA LOMA?
Yes. Properties in Chesapeake that sit on natural high ground above the Base Flood Elevation may qualify for a LOMA. LOMAs are pursued in Chesapeake for properties near Elizabeth River tributaries and the North Landing River where ground elevation exceeds the mapped base flood elevation. Properties in the Deep Creek and Great Bridge areas are common LOMA 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 Chesapeake?
A LOMR-F applies when earthen fill created the elevation difference at the property. LOMR-Fs are filed in Chesapeake for residential developments where fill is placed to raise structures above the mapped floodplain, particularly in the city's expanding southern and western growth areas. If fill was used, packaging the file as a LOMA usually creates delay.
How long does a LOMA take in Chesapeake?
Timing depends on document readiness and whether the case qualifies for the faster eLOMA route. Most Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake?
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 Virginia. Most homeowners spend several hundred to low four figures total.
Does a LOMA in Chesapeake remove flood insurance?
A LOMA can change the federal mandatory-purchase requirement, but Virginia lenders and carriers still make their own underwriting decisions. Many homeowners keep voluntary coverage at significantly lower Preferred Risk rates.
Which cities in Chesapeake see the most LOMA activity?
LOMA and LOMR-F activity in Chesapeake is concentrated around Chesapeake. Common flood zones include Zone AE, Zone A, Zone X.
Can FloodMapReview.com help with a LOMA anywhere in Chesapeake?
Yes. We review LOMA and LOMR-F files across all of Chesapeake, Virginia. Call (281) 870-4492 to talk through an urgent file or start a guided eligibility review online.
What documents should Chesapeake 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.