2018 Summer Flood Prevention Tips

Summer rains are notorious for bringing floods. Hurricanes and global warming can wreak havoc on your home. According to National Geographic, floods can cause $6 billion in damages and kill about 140 people each year, just in the United States. Even if you don’t live in a high-risk flood area, you still need to take measures to protect your home. Since homeowners insurance does not cover damage caused by flooding, you need a separate flood insurance policy to help protect your home.

Protect Your Home

There are some actions you can take to help prevent flooding from damaging your home. Also be sure to check out Encharter’s Flood Mapping Tool to help you assess your flood risk!

If possible move switches, sockets, circuit breakers and wiring off the ground so that if flood water does get into your home, it won’t cause too much damage.
Keep gutters and drains clear of debris. This will allow water to flow away from your home.
Anchor your outdoor equipment. Air conditioning units, generators, etc. should be securely fastened down. If possible, place them on an elevated area so that they have some protection from flooding.
Have your sump pump and other drainage systems inspected regularly to ensure they are working properly.
Have a plumber install a backflow prevention valve to prevent sewage from entering your home during a flood.
Put together an emergency plan and make sure all family members know what to do in the event of a flood. You may also want to have emergency kits with supplies ready for use.
Check out these additional ways to prevent basement flooding.

Flood Insurance

Flood insurance is used when your home and its contents sustain damage resulting from flooding. It’s a separate policy from your home insurance policy. If you only have home insurance, and a flood damages your home, you won’t be protected. In some areas, you may be required to get flood insurance. These are typically high-risk areas where flooding is more likely to occur. Even if you do not live in a high-risk area, flooding can happen everywhere!

A flood insurance policy can differ from home to home, but it’s usually in two parts. First is coverage for the home’s structure. This helps to cover the building itself. The second part is for your home’s contents, or the stuff inside of your home. Work with your insurance agent to find the best coverage for you and your home. You can adjust your limits, deducible, and premiums to suit your home’s needs. Learn more about flooding here.

When it comes to floods, you can never be too prepared. They are a strong force of nature and it can cause huge amounts of damage. Being prepared is one of the best ways to minimize flood damage. Having flood insurance can help protect you financially if something does happen. Talk to your insurance agent to get the right policy for your home and family.