FAQs
 



 


What does ServiceLink National Flood do?

ServiceLink National Flood provides guaranteed and accurate flood zone determinations (FZDs) in compliance with federal requirements and in a FEMA-approved certification format. Our quick and reliable FZD service helps lenders expedite loan processing and approval. Several options are available for ordering and receiving FZDs, including Internet, EDI transfers, and fax. 

ServiceLink National Flood goes beyond simply providing FZDs. We will tailor additional services, such as HMDA reporting and portfolio monitoring, to fit the demands of your organization. For properties located in a Special Flood Hazard Area, ServiceLink National Flood will work with your provider or through our alliances to provide force-placed flood insurance services.


Why would I need a flood zone determination?

The Federal Disaster Protection Act of 1973 and Flood Insurance Reform Act of 1994 mandates that lenders determine the need for flood insurance by identifying mortgage properties on federal flood maps and ensure that coverage is kept in force for the life of the loan. 


How does ServiceLink National Flood perform flood zone determinations?

ServiceLink National Flood completes all flood certifications using digital and hard copy FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Maps and Flood Hazard Boundary Maps in conjunction with geocoding software, street maps, tax maps, plats, and aerial and satellite photos. Additionally, ServiceLink National Flood bases all FZDs on the location of the insurable improvements.


How are FEMA maps kept current?

In order to identify properties affected by flood map revisions, ServiceLink National Flood maintains a database of all current FEMA flood map information, which is consolidated from five government sources and updated on a regular basis.


How long does it take to get a flood zone determination?

Flood information is processed through our national flood certification database and returned in real-time in most instances. Flood zone determinations that are not completed automatically will be manually researched and are usually returned within 24 hours. A status update will be sent for FZDs not returned within 24 hours as notification of the reason for delay.


Is life of loan coverage available?

Yes. ServiceLink National Flood’ life of loan service ensures compliance with the Flood Insurance Reform Act of 1994. The life of loan coverage includes tracking of map revisions and changes in community participation status. When a flood hazard status change or a change in community participation status affecting flood insurance availability is detected, ServiceLink National Flood will notify the lender within 60 days.


Do you guarantee your flood zone determinations?

Yes. Each flood zone determination is backed by an errors and omissions policy.


How long has ServiceLink National Flood been in business?

ServiceLink National Flood was established in 1988.