Are you a homeowner? If so, you have many responsibilities, and some things can get overlooked. This includes investing in flood protection!
Not only can flash flooding cause death, but it can also wreak havoc on your property, which can cost you thousands in repair.
The good news is there are ways to battle flood damage if it ever occurs. In this article, we are going over 7 flood prevention tips every homeowner needs to know.
Table of Contents
Know If You Live in a Flood Zone
The first step in flood prevention is knowing if you live in a flood zone. If you live near a water body such as a lake, ocean, or river, you are more susceptible to flooding.
This is especially important to know if you are in the process of buying a home. The sooner you know, the better. The best way to find out if you live in a flood zone is by using the FEMA flood map.
Purchase Flood Insurance
Purchasing flood insurance is a must for any homeowner. Even if you live in an area where there isn’t a body of water, that doesn’t mean you’re immune to flood damage. A heavy storm can cause flashing flooding or even burst pipes in your own home.
The best defense is to get coverage so you can ensure your home is covered in the case of flash flooding. Want to learn more? Take a look here.
Elevate Your Boiler
If you have a boiler, air conditioning unit, or heat pump, it’s most likely located in your home’s lowest level, such as the basement.
Your heating and cooling units are typically the most expensive to replace or repair. If you have the chance, move these units to higher ground in case of flooding to your property occurs.
Adjust Your Landscaping For Flood Prevention
If your property has porous surfaces, these surfaces will help the water seep into the solid matter rather than toward your home. Consider digging a depression in the ground to channel storm water runoff away from your home.
You can also use absorbent mulch around the home, which can help manage or reduce the potential for flood damage towards your dwelling.
Change the Water Valves
If city sewers get flooded, this can result in sewage backing up into your property. The best way to prevent this is by installing a backflow water valve to your main drain.
When a storm comes through or an event where you feel like pipes get backed up, turn the valve on your backflow water valve to give you peace of mind.
Do Routine Inspections
Maintaining scheduled home inspections is a must for any homeowner. Try to get a routine inspection done every 1-3 years. A home inspection can give you insight into your foundation’s strength or damage to the home’s structure.
These problems can enhance flood damage if it ever occurs.
Put Valuables in Water Proof Containers
To keep your valuables safe, invest in waterproof containers, and put them in it. Keep these waterproof containers in the highest part of your home, such as a shelf on the highest floor or an attic if possible.
Find Other Helpful Homeowner Tips
Other flood prevention tips include cleaning your gutters at least twice a year, extending your downspouts at least 10 feet away from your home, and making sure to stay alert. If you haven’t invested in a sump pump, do it now. This will help keep your basement dry and can minimize damage.
Did you benefit from this article? Be sure to check out our other articles on our site today!