eLOMA Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is eLOMA? eLOMA is a web-based application within the Mapping Information Platform (MIP) that provides licensed land surveyors and professional engineers (Licensed Professionals) with a system to submit simple Letter of Map Amendment (LOMA) requests to FEMA. This tool is designed to make a determination based on the information submitted by the Licensed Professional Through the use of eLOMA, Licensed Professionals could receive a determination in the time that it takes to enter the required information online. Approximately half of the LOMAs processed annually (about 10,000 cases) meet the requirements of eLOMA.

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2. Could you explain the difference between eLOMA and a regular LOMA? An eLOMA document will serve the same functions as a standard LOMA. The main difference between the two is that the eLOMA online determination is made automatically with standard checks instead of the lengthier manual review used in traditional LOMA processing. In addition, eLOMA does not replace the LOMA procedure. The eLOMA determination tool is an optional process applicable to only the most basic LOMA requests. Additionally, eLOMA requests that Licensed Professionals provide a legal description (there is help text within the eLOMA application to help you write this description) and that Licensed Professionals refer to the Flood Insurance Study profiles for the Base Flood Elevation (BFE). Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) do not always have this information.

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3. Who can get eLOMAs? The eLOMA online determination tool is available only to licensed land surveyors and professional engineers that have registered to be eLOMA Licensed Professionals and that are submitting the application on behalf of the homeowner/landowner.

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4. How do I register for an eLOMA account? You can find information about registering to become an eLOMA Licensed Professional online at http://hazards.fema.gov after June 12, 2006. Select the Tools & Links tab and click ‘What is eLOMA?’ under the Other Resources heading. Registration forms can be downloaded from this page (after June 12, 2006) and you will need to complete this form and mail, fax, or e-mail to the eLOMA Coordinator at FEMA using the following:

Mail:
Federal Emergency Management Agency
Attn: eLOMA Coordinator
3601 Eisenhower Avenue, Suite 130
Alexandria, VA 22304-6439.

Fax:703-751-7415
E-mail: MIPHelp@mapmodteam.com
Please include the following text in the subject field of your e-mail: 'Registering for eLOMA.'

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5. Can you explain the type of requests that can be processed using eLOMA? The initial release of eLOMA will enable Licensed Professionals to make requests for existing single residential structures or properties located in detailed areas (no approximate Zone A areas) on the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM), provided no fill has been placed to raise the elevations of the structure or property.

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6. How much does an eLOMA cost? Currently, there is no charge to receive a LOMA, and eLOMAs will also be available to Licensed Professionals at no cost.

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7. What if my request doesn't qualify for an eLOMA determination? The Licensed Professional will need to submit your application using the standard MT-1 forms.

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8. eLOMA told me I needed to keep a copy of all pertinent data. What does this mean? How should I keep this data? The Licensed Professional should retain hard copies of data used to complete the eLOMA application (elevation information, profiles, recorded deed, tax map, plat, etc.) for two years. Record retention is needed for future validation purposes.

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9. I used eLOMA and got audited, what happens next? If the application is selected for FEMA audit, the Licensed Professional will receive instructions for submitting their application materials. If the application is approved, the Licensed Professional will receive notification via e-mail within 5 business days that they can login and print the determination.

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10. My eLOMA got audited and was rejected, what happens next? If the application is rejected the Licensed Professional will receive and email with an explanation as to why the eLOMA was audited. The application will then be processed by FEMA as a LOMA using the standard MT-1 manual procedure. The standard MT-1 manual process can take up to 60 days once all required data is received. The Licensed Professional will be audited again after his/her next submittal. After a successful audit the Licensed Professional will be able to generate eLOMA determinations online. However, he/she will still be subject to random audits.

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11. What are the current plans for expansion and future enhancements? No plans as of yet but please submit suggestions to MIPHelp@mapmodteam.com.

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12. Can eLOMA be used for properties located in Zone A areas? No, eLOMA can only be used for properties in areas of detailed flooding. Currently eLOMA is being used for those areas that are existing residential structures or properties, provided no fill has been placed to raise the elevation of the structure or property.

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Where can I obtain additional information on eLOMA? You can find additional information about eLOMA on the MIP (http://hazards.fema.gov). Select the Tools & Links tab and click ‘What is eLOMA?’ under the Other Resources heading.

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