Vertical positions — such as a flood elevation certificate's figures — are referenced to a:
Correct Answer
A) Datum, a defined zero surface for elevations
Why this is correct: A datum is a standard reference surface (like sea level) from which elevations are measured. Flood elevation certificates and survey benchmarks reference a specific, defined datum (e.g., NAVD 88) to ensure consistency. Why the other choices are wrong: 'Setback established by zoning' regulates building placement, not elevation measurement. 'A benchmark maintained privately by each licensed surveyor' is incorrect; benchmarks are tied to public datums. 'Contour interval on the plat' is the difference in elevation between contour lines, not the reference zero point. Exam tip: Elevations are meaningless without a known datum. Always note which datum (e.g., NGVD 29, NAVD 88) is used on a flood certificate or survey.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
Why this is correct: A datum is a standard reference surface (like sea level) from which elevations are measured. Flood elevation certificates and survey benchmarks reference a specific, defined datum (e.g., NAVD 88) to ensure consistency. Why the other choices are wrong: 'Setback established by zoning' regulates building placement, not elevation measurement. 'A benchmark maintained privately by each licensed surveyor' is incorrect; benchmarks are tied to public datums. 'Contour interval on the plat' is the difference in elevation between contour lines, not the reference zero point. Exam tip: Elevations are meaningless without a known datum. Always note which datum (e.g., NGVD 29, NAVD 88) is used on a flood certificate or survey.
More Property Description Questions
A property is located in FEMA flood zone AE with a base flood elevation of 485 feet. The lowest floor is at 487 feet. What is the significance for the appraisal?
In a leasehold estate, the tenant's interest in the property is called:
A residential property is located in a subdivision governed by covenants, conditions, and restrictions (CC&Rs) recorded in 1985. One CC&R prohibits detached accessory structures over 12 feet in height. The property currently has a 14-foot-tall detached garage built in 2012. No enforcement action has been taken. How should the appraiser reflect this violation in the appraisal report?
Why is a street address alone insufficient as a legal description in an appraisal report?
A ground lease typically involves:
In the rectangular survey system, a section contains how many acres?
A property is located in a 100-year flood zone. This means the property has what probability of flooding in any given year?
A building's foundation shows minor settling cracks that have been properly repaired and show no signs of recent movement. This condition represents:
An appraisal of a rented single-family home where the lease runs another four years at below-market rent is valuing which interest, from the owner's side?
When appraising a tenant's interest in a property under a long-term lease with below-market rent, the appraiser is valuing which property right?
People Also Study
Valuation Principles & Procedures
25% of exam
Market Analysis & Highest/Best Use
15% of exam
Appraisal Math & Statistics
15% of exam
USPAP (Ethics & Standards)
15% of exam
Report Writing & Compliance
10% of exam
Previous Question
A commercial-zoned parcel is improved with a single-story office building. The appraiser measures the building per BOMA Office Standard and calculates a rentable area of 12,500 sq ft. The same building, measured per ANSI Z765-2021 for a hypothetical residential conversion, yields a GLA of 9,800 sq ft. What is the primary reason for this difference?
Next Question
Which roofing material typically has the longest useful life expectancy?