New FEMA Standards Are Transforming Long Island’s Coastal Construction Landscape in 2025
Long Island’s coastal communities are experiencing a significant shift in construction requirements as FEMA’s updated Technical Bulletin 2 (2025) replaces the previous 2008 flood damage-resistant materials requirements. These new standards are reshaping how masonry contractors approach coastal construction projects, particularly in flood-prone areas where traditional building methods no longer meet federal compliance requirements.
Understanding the New FEMA Flood Zone Requirements
The 2025 FEMA updates introduce stricter guidelines for masonry construction in Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs). The NFIP regulations require the lowest floor in buildings in Zone A to be at or above the Base Flood Elevation (BFE), with all materials below the lowest floor required to be flood damage-resistant materials. This represents a fundamental change in how coastal masonry projects must be designed and executed.
For Long Island’s coastal areas, which frequently fall within Coastal A Zones where potential wave action and floating debris could cause significant damage, property owners are encouraged to exceed minimum requirements and build “safer and higher” to reduce risk to life and property. These zones present unique challenges that require specialized expertise from experienced contractors.
Masonry Material Standards and Compliance
The new standards place particular emphasis on material selection for masonry construction. Section 5 of Technical Bulletin 2 provides comprehensive lists of common structural and finish materials, including their specific descriptions and whether they are acceptable or unacceptable for use below the BFE in SFHAs. This detailed guidance helps ensure that masonry projects meet federal requirements from the ground up.
Coastal masonry construction faces additional challenges beyond standard flood requirements. In coastal areas, masonry pier foundations are not recommended in V zones with erodible soils, or in A zones subject to waves and erosion, requiring alternative foundation solutions that comply with the new standards.
Enhanced Construction Requirements for Coastal Areas
The 2025 updates recognize the unique hazards of coastal construction. ASCE 24 references third-party standards for certain materials, including metal connectors and fasteners, structural steel, concrete, masonry, wood and timber, requiring materials used for dry floodproofing to be flood damage-resistant materials. This comprehensive approach ensures that every component of a masonry project contributes to overall flood resistance.
For masonry work specifically, the new standards require careful attention to construction practices. Masonry units and packaged mortar and grout materials should be stored off the ground and covered, masonry work in progress must be well protected, and mortar and grouts must be carefully batched and mixed. These seemingly simple requirements become critical in coastal environments where salt air and moisture can compromise material integrity.
Working with Experienced Long Island Contractors
Navigating these complex new requirements requires working with contractors who understand both the technical aspects of masonry construction and the specific challenges of Long Island’s coastal environment. DLZ Construction and Landscaping Inc., based in Long Island, brings over two decades of industry experience to these challenging projects. Specializing in high-quality masonry, comprehensive landscape design, and customized hardscaping solutions, serving Suffolk and Nassau counties, their team is dedicated to transforming residential or commercial properties with precision and artistic craftsmanship.
The company’s deep understanding of local conditions proves invaluable when addressing the new FEMA requirements. As locals, they have unique insights into the styles and requirements of Suffolk and Nassau counties, ensuring that projects not only meet but exceed local standards. This local expertise becomes crucial when dealing with the intersection of federal flood requirements and local building codes.
When searching for qualified long island masonry contractors, property owners should prioritize those with demonstrated experience in flood-zone construction and knowledge of the latest FEMA standards.
The Impact on Property Values and Insurance
Compliance with the new FEMA standards isn’t just about meeting regulatory requirements—it has real financial implications. FEMA strongly encourages at least +1 foot of freeboard, and many jurisdictions have adopted this requirement. Freeboard greatly reduces flood risk and often lowers insurance premiums significantly, with each additional foot above BFE potentially reducing NFIP premiums by a substantial percentage.
For Long Island property owners, this means that investing in compliant masonry construction can provide long-term financial benefits through reduced insurance costs and improved property values. The upfront investment in proper materials and construction methods pays dividends in both safety and economics.
Looking Forward: Preparing for Future Changes
The 2025 FEMA updates represent an ongoing evolution in flood-resistant construction standards. FEMA is committed to its ongoing effort to update all Technical Bulletins, with changes being made to update and streamline content and presentation. This means that staying current with requirements will be an ongoing necessity for both contractors and property owners.
As Long Island continues to face the realities of coastal living and climate change, the new FEMA standards provide a framework for building more resilient communities. By working with experienced contractors who understand both the technical requirements and local conditions, property owners can ensure their masonry projects not only meet current standards but are positioned to adapt to future changes.
The transformation of Long Island’s coastal construction landscape through these new FEMA standards represents both a challenge and an opportunity. While the requirements are more stringent, they ultimately create safer, more durable structures that can withstand the unique challenges of coastal living while providing long-term value to property owners.