Community Rating System: How Your Town Can Lower Flood Insurance

What Is the Community Rating System?

The Community Rating System (CRS) is a voluntary NFIP program that rewards communities for implementing floodplain management practices that exceed the minimum federal requirements. Communities earn credit points for activities like maintaining open space, managing stormwater, mapping flood hazards, and educating residents about flood risk.

The more credits a community earns, the higher its CRS class (from Class 10, the entry level, to Class 1, the highest achievement). Each class improvement translates directly into insurance premium discounts for residents.

How Much Can You Save?

CRS discounts range from 5% for Class 9 communities to 45% for Class 1 communities. For a homeowner paying $3,000 per year in flood insurance, living in a Class 5 community (25% discount) saves $750 annually. Over a 30-year mortgage, that adds up to $22,500 in savings.

As of 2025, approximately 1,500 communities participate in the CRS, representing about 69% of all NFIP policies. However, most communities are rated Class 8 or 9, meaning the majority of participants are only achieving the 5-10% discount level.

What Activities Earn Credits

Public information: Elevation certificates, map information services, flood protection websites. Mapping and regulations: Higher regulatory standards, open space preservation, stormwater management. Flood damage reduction: Acquisition of flood-prone properties, retrofitting at-risk buildings, drainage system maintenance. Warning and response: Flood warning systems, levee safety programs, dam safety plans.

Advocating for Your Community

If your community does not participate in the CRS, contact your local floodplain administrator or town council to advocate for enrollment. The application process requires effort but benefits every flood insurance policyholder in the community. Check your ZIP code flood data to see current flood zone information and whether CRS discounts apply in your area.