Monmouth runs 17 blocks from Bright to 13th. All DTJC, and you didn't say where for the cross street. North and south ends had problems, as did some sections mainly along 5th and 6th.

As I recall there was flooding on 5t and Monmouth.

DTJC, just off momouth

Good answers so far.

You might be able to get financing without a flood insurance requirement IF you have a large-enough downpayment (generally 25% or more). I've had 3 properties over the years in DTJC and never carried flood insurance but they were also on higher ground (intentionally).

I had 6" in my basement during Sandy, and that was mainly because my neighbor won't install a check valve in his sewer line (for maybe $300) and he had over 4 feet in his basement.

Just a suggestion: There are several hundred people on this board so if you gave us the approximate location or actual address of the property in question you'd get some real feedback on your potential for flooding, based on Sandy.

Another question to ask is, even under the scenario where the below grade kitchen is grandfathered, whether you can get flood insurance for the property and what will be the numbers. I understand that FEMA maps will come into effect at the end of next year and it should impact the insurance requirements for many DTJC owners... Are you ready to accept say 3K extra insurance per year?

Note: I assumed the property you are interested in is DTJC, if not ignore this comment.

Rule of thumb I think. Existing fixtures and fittings are "grandfathered in". Changes to them need to be brought up to code - at least that's what I observed post-Sandy.

But best to ask the City's buildings dept or a reputable contractor.

I am thinking about buying a home downtown. The kitchen, bathroom and living room are in the basement, below grade. Will the new elevation codes prevent me from doing a total gut and leaving the kitchen, bathroom and living room down there?
Before I go to the building dept. just want to get some thoughts.