I looked at a house today that has a serious flood insurance issue. The garage was converted into a very nice room with ceramic tile, paneling, crown molding, just beautiful. Since the floor is below the base flood elevation, the flood insurance policy increased over 400%! This is not an isolated case. I see this same situation repeatedly. Please, please, contact your flood insurance provider before beginning any construction or renovation project in a flood zone. Discuss the improvements you are planning and find out the impact they will have on you policy.