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You can do certain things to help protect your home from flood damage. Understanding what specific steps you can take for your home and location can make a huge difference. Knowing the wide range of preparations and home improvements might just be your saving grace. It is up to you to get connected with an agent to know all the emergency management tools.
Evaluate Your Risk
First and foremost, you must determine how likely you are to face flood damage in your area, as well as the strength of the structure of your house. There are flood region maps provided by FEMA that indicate the general risks. All you have to do is provide your address, and you will be able to see the area’s flood zones.
They use different color zone markings based on the flood risk of a region and its relevant structures, such as bridges, dams, and levees. Check that the map is up to date, and make sure to speak to your agent about your home’s specific risk. Along with location, the exact positioning and how your house is built will directly reflect the protection you need from flood damage.
It is advised to learn how floodwaters could come into your house by examining the surface runoff during rain or snowmelt. Does the water flow toward or away from your home? Also, check if there are puddles around doors or basement windows to better understand the overall flooding risk and know where you should dry-proof.
It is crucial to remember that a standard homeowners insurance policy does not cover the risk of flooding, as an additional flood insurance plan will be needed for adequate coverage.
Flood Resistant Prepping
How are you prepared to flood-proof your home? First, you must understand what your home needs. You may decide to take on more major home renovations or stick to basic maintenance. It all depends on your home’s unique risk exposures. Methods of flood control to protect your home from rising water include:
- Raising the home with stilts or piers
- Installing foundation vents or a sump pump
- Applying coatings and sealants
- Raising electrical outlets and switches
- Installing pipe check valves
- Grading landscape away from the house
- Leaving ample space between mulch and siding
- Pointing the downspouts away from the house
It is also recommended to raise your appliances above the flood level. This can typically be done by putting them on concrete blocks. The appliances that you may want to consider elevating include:
- The air conditioning units
- Any generators
- The water heaters
- Your washing machines
- The dryers
Preventive steps with the Onset of Flooding
If a storm is on its way or you are already experiencing flooding at your home, these steps can help you minimize the water damage:
- Quickly turn off the waterline (if it’s the cause of the flooding).
- Clean gutters and drains to allow the water to flow freely.
- Use sandbags to help fill gaps that allow the water to come inside.
- Elevate all your valuables.
- If flood water is close to reaching your electrical system, turn your electricity off with the breaker panel.
- Open windows to allow airflow through your home (if it’s not raining).
- Use a sump pump or shop vacuum to help get rid of the water quickly.
- Take videos and pictures of the flooding as proof in the case of a claim.
About Transparity Insurance Services
Transparity Insurance Services was founded for the purpose of helping clients to ensure their property and assets with no hassle. We are committed to providing a simple, easy, efficient, and positive experience to all of our clients, and prioritize open and transparent communication with our clients. Through our excellent customer service and technology, we can help you to find the right insurance program at a competitive price. Contact us today at (855) 889-2037 to learn more about what we can do for you.