Heavy Rains, Flash Floods And Water Damage

8/20/2021 (Permalink)

Flooding And Water Damage To Your Home

Weather patterns in your area can be unpredictable. Flash flooding, heavy rains, and road closures are part of life in the metro area.
Sometimes floods develop slowly and forecasters can predict where a flood will happen well in advance.

There are times that flash floods occur in minutes and even on occasion, without any sign of rain. The National Weather Service (NWS) believes being prepared can save your life and give you peace of mind.

National Weather Service recommends following these tips before a flood:

1. If you have access to sandbags or other materials, use them to protect your home from flood waters if you have sufficient time to do so. Filling sandbags can take more time than you may think.

2. Have a professional install check-valves in plumbing to prevent flood waters from backing up into the drains of your home. Make sure your sump pump is working and consider having a backup. Make sure your electric circuit breakers, or fuses, are clearly marked for each area of your home.

3. Since standard homeowners insurance doesn't cover flooding, ensure coverage by contacting your insurance company or agent to purchase flood insurance. This must be done before there is even a threat of flooding as insurance companies stop issuing policies if there is a threat of flooding. (i.e. an approaching hurricane). Many flood insurance policies take at least 30 days to go into effect so even if you can buy it as a storm is approaching, it may not protect your investment.