What is Pre-FIRM and Post-FIRM?
FIRM stands for Flood Insurance Rate Map. The first FIRM became effective on December 31, 1974. A building is either pre-FIRM or post-FIRM depending on when it was constructed or had substantial improvements.
Pre-FIRM buildings are those that were constructed or had substantial improvements on or BEFORE December 31, 1974. This is before the effective date of an initial Flood Insurance Rate Map. These buildings may not conform to current flood plain management regulations.
Post-FIRM buildings are those that were constructed or had substantial improvement AFTER December 31, 1974 or on or after the effective date of an initial Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM), whichever is later.
