Reduce Flood Damage By Preparing Your Property
A small amount of water can do a lot of damage to your home. Therefore, you should do everything you can to keep water out. Knowing your flooding risk and taking precautions will not only help you, but it will also keep your flood insurance company happy. Here is more information about how to prepare for flooding and how to protect as much property as possible.
Know Your Risks
Most homes have some sort of flood risk, but the risk can vary widely. FEMA has a flood map tool, so you can see how much flood risk you have. If you are in a moderate or high-risk area, then you must be extra prepared in case a storm causes flooding in your area. Even if your risk is low, you could still be at risk of flooding from burst pipes or leaking roofs.
Prepare Your Appliances
If your flood risk is high, then make sure all of your appliances are above the flood line. This includes your outdoor air-conditioning system. Keep anything valuable above the flood line. Prepare these items for unusual flooding from freak storms, leaking roofs, or broken pipes as well.
Keep Up With Maintenance
One way to lessen water damage overall is to keep up with all your home maintenance. Keep your drains clean, including gutters, outdoor drains, and basement floor drains. Make sure downspouts take water away from the property. Report any clogged street drains to your local government agency.
Check Your Roof
Check your roof regularly for leaks and other damage. Soft spots on the roof could collapse and let water during a storm. If you live in a severe storm area, consider placing a reinforced roof with extra waterproofing over your home. These roofs are designed for higher-than-normal wet weather and will reduce leaks.
Look at Your Landscape
Make sure your landscape is designed so the water flows off your property rather than pooling on the property. Repair excessive erosion and make sure the slopes are still intact and graded as they were when the property was first developed. Check your walkways for dips where water can pool. Also, check to make sure you don't have any patio furniture or garden items that blocking critical draining areas.
When you prepare for a flood, then you are less likely to suffer a complete loss. Check over the current flood insurance policy for any gaps in coverage. Flood insurance is separate from homeowner's insurance, so you need both for maximum protection. If you don't have flood insurance, then contact a flood insurance company for more information.
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