Community Rating System

Two framed plaques for the Community Rating system. On the lleft is one for the City of Charlotte. On the right, Mecklenburg County.
Two framed CRS plaques for the City of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County.

The Community Rating System (CRS) is a voluntary incentive program that recognizes and encourages community floodplain management practices that exceed the minimum requirements of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Over 1,500 communities participate nationwide.

The incentives include discounts to flood insurance policies in these communities. Charlotte currently is a Class 3 community. In April 2025, the City will effectively be a Class 2 CRS community receiving up to 40% discount on insurance premiums for buildings in the FEMA Regulated floodplain and 10% for those outside the floodplain. Huntersville, Pineville, and unincorporated Mecklenburg County are Class 5 communities with a 25% discount. Discounts may vary due to other considerations or existing discounts. Check with your insurance provider to make sure you are receiving the maximum discount.

Ratings are determined by community activities that further reduce and avoid flood damage to insurable property, strengthen and support the insurance aspects of the National Flood Insurance Program, and foster comprehensive floodplain management.