Washington City to Pay Less for Flood Insurance

City of Orting, Washington residents will enjoy reduced flood insurance premiums, thanks to their city's active participation in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Community Rating System (CRS).

According to FEMA Regional Administrator Susan Reinertson, they'll not only pay less in insurance premiums, but enjoy reduced exposure to flood damage.

"The CRS rewards communities that proactively regulate floodplains, support flood preparedness, implement flood damage reduction policies and engage in effective public awareness programs," said Reinertson. "The City of Orting joined the CRS effective May 1, 2008 as a Class 7 community, saving their constituents fifteen percent on flood insurance premiums."

Orting Mayor Cheryl Temple agrees. "We've made a consistent effort to ensure good floodplain management, and have placed a high priority on preserving open space in our floodplains and pay close attention to our community's drainage system," said Temple. "I'm particularly proud of our community outreach program, and our comprehensive flood warning program."

Flood insurance premium reductions resulting from qualifying community activities run in five percent increments, from five percent to 45 percent. Class ratings range from Ten to One. The higher the flood protection activity, the lower the Class rating.

Orting's Class 7 Rating provides a 15 percent discount on Orting NFIP policies, for an average annual premium of $566. With 275 policies currently in force within the city limits, that's an average savings of $69 per policy for floodplain residents.