Essential Flood Prevention Tips for Homeowners

You can help manage the risk of flood damage in your home by examining the likelihood and possible severity of flooding from not only a local standpoint but also by considering your specific house. Start by determining how you can be proactive and make applicable accommodations, like using a flood control system or sealant on cracks in your home's foundation. Speak with your agent regarding what flood prevention and insurance they recommend for you.

Evaluate your Risk

You must first assess your likelihood of flood damage taking your neighborhood and how your house is built into consideration. You can determine the general flood risk by region by using a flood map. It's easy to find flood zones and reports of your region's flood history, as it is readily accessible through a simple online search. The zones are color-coded and easy to read. Always check that the map is up to date so you and your agent can use accurate data to determine your specific flood risk and the protection your house needs. Figure out where floodwater may enter your house evaluating the surface runoff after significant rain or snowmelt. Check if water is going toward or away from your home and if there is any pooling around doors or windows. This will help you determine the best dry-proofing techniques for your home.

Be Proactive

It is in your best interest to properly flood-proof your home, which can involve expensive home renovations or free, basic maintenance. Your needs will be based on your home's risk. If you are undergoing flood-proofing renovations to minimize flood damage, you can utilize these flood control tips to protect your home from rising water:

• Raise your home on stilts or piers.
• Install foundation vents or a sump pump so water can flow through your home instead of gathering around it.
• Apply coatings and sealants to the foundation, walls, windows, and doorways so that water cannot leak through cracks.
• Raise your electrical outlets and switches at least one foot above flood level to prevent electrical damage.
• Install check valves on your pipes to avoid a flooded sewage system from backup.
• Grade your lawn so that it slants away from the house.
• Leave space between mulch and siding so the base of your house is able to fully dry after it rains.
• Direct downspouts away from the house.
• Protect internal and external appliances by raising them above the flood level. (This can be done simply by placing them on concrete blocks).

Other Considerations

If you are in a high-risk flood zone then you should already have certain items in your home elevated. If you become aware that a flood may be coming your way, take the time to elevate your appliances that could otherwise lead to other major issues. Appliances that should be elevated above flood level:

• Air conditioning units
• Generators
• Water heaters
• Washing machines
• Dryers

Whether rain is on the way or flooding has already begun, here are some methods to help control or reduce water damage:

• Keep gutters and drains clean so that water can easily flow out.
• Use sandbags to block open species that are leading to pooling.
• Elevate valuable items such as furniture.
• If flooding is coming close to the electrical system be sure to shut off your electricity at the breaker panel immediately.
• If it makes sense to do so, open windows to allow air to flow through your home.
• Use a sump pump or shop vacuum to remove water more quickly.
• Document the flooding with photos and videos so you are better able to prove your claim.

About David G. Sayles Insurance Services

At David G. Sayles Insurance Services, we help our clients decide which of these options is best for them based on their current situation and risk factors.  Contact us at 1-855-977-1842 or insureme@dsayles.mysites.io for a consultation!