FEMA Approves Basement Exception for Fargo

Press Release

Today Congressman Kevin Cramer announced the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has approved the City of Fargo's application for the basement exception in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Fargo has had a basement exception since 1975, however the new 100-year floodplain map required the city to reapply for a continuation of the policy.

"The exception for flood-proofed basements is a common sense policy. I am pleased FEMA has recognized the hard work Fargo residents have gone through to create and maintain their basements as reliable places of shelter. This is great news for Fargo homeowners who have made proactive, long-term investments in flood-proofing their homes," said Cramer.

In December, Cramer and the state's Senators wrote to FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate to express their strong support for the application. After the letter was sent, Cramer spoke with FEMA about his support for the City of Fargo's application. They discussed the exception, basement construction, and economic concerns, including the already-significant increases in construction costs in North Dakota. Congressman Cramer was also instrumental in making sure the basement exception policy stayed intact during formulation of the Homeowner Flood Insurance Affordability Act, which was signed by the President on March 21, 2014.

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