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 ground lease typically involves:
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?
A duplex operates legally in a zone later rezoned single-family. What is its status, and the key appraisal question?
Which component carries roof loads down to the foundation in a typical wood-framed house?
A property owner wants to operate a daycare center in an area zoned for single-family residential use. What would they most likely need to obtain?
A deed restriction that prohibits the construction of fences over 4 feet in height is an example of:
Room count in residential appraisal conventionally excludes:
Type I construction classification typically refers to buildings with:
People Also Study
Real Estate Market
13.6% of exam
Land or Site Valuation
4.5% of exam
Sales Comparison Approach
16.4% of exam
Cost Approach
13.6% of exam
Income Approach
8.2% 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
The E 1/2 of the SW 1/4 of the NE 1/4 of a section contains: