---
title: "What Is FEMA 50 percent rule? Building Glossary"
description: "The FEMA 50 percent rule requires a building in a flood hazard area to be brought up to current flood standards when repairs or improvements reach half its..."
url: https://build813.multisites.ai/glossary/fema-50-percent-rule
publisher: Halo Homes
phone: +1-813-956-1972
quote: https://build813.multisites.ai/contact
---

![Rear of a two-story home with a covered porch and a lawn](https://build813.multisites.ai/_astro/sunset-rear.CfW-1rmW_Z1Y9B2y.avif)

# FEMA 50 percent rule

The FEMA 50 percent rule requires a building in a flood hazard area to be brought up to current flood standards when repairs or improvements reach half its market value.

The 50 percent rule is a shorthand for two FEMA terms: [substantial damage](https://build813.multisites.ai/glossary/substantial-damage) and [substantial improvement](https://build813.multisites.ai/glossary/substantial-improvement). Both use a threshold of 50 percent of the building's market value before the work or the damage.

The City of Tampa states the rule in plain terms. If repairs or improvements pass half the home's value in an A or V zone, the house must meet current code, including elevation above the [base flood elevation](https://build813.multisites.ai/glossary/base-flood-elevation). This is why a remodel and a rebuild can look alike on paper. See [building in a flood zone](https://build813.multisites.ai/build-in-a-flood-zone-tampa).

[Halo Homes can helpRenovation and remodeling](https://build813.multisites.ai/services/renovation-and-remodeling)

## Related terms

-   [Substantial damage](https://build813.multisites.ai/glossary/substantial-damage)
-   [Substantial improvement](https://build813.multisites.ai/glossary/substantial-improvement)
-   [Base flood elevation](https://build813.multisites.ai/glossary/base-flood-elevation)
-   [Building permit](https://build813.multisites.ai/glossary/building-permit)

## Sources

1.  [City of Tampa: Flood Information](https://www.tampa.gov/tss-stormwater/info/flood)
2.  [FEMA: Substantial Improvement](https://www.fema.gov/about/glossary/substantial-improvement)

![Pool and spa on a white stone deck by the water, with boat masts beyond](https://build813.multisites.ai/_astro/pool-waterfront.CLnYphmi_1cWGPd.avif)

## Start your home.

Tell Halo about your lot, your plans and your timing. A call or a short note is enough to begin.

[Start your home](https://build813.multisites.ai/contact)

Or call [(813) 956-1972](tel:+1-813-956-1972)