Flooding can occur anywhere, without warning. If conditions are right, your house can be inundated with water before you can do anything about it, so it’s best to be prepared beforehand.
There are a lot of things to think about when planning for a flood and facing the aftermath if you are unfortunately involved in one. Not only are there legal issues with insurance, there is the devastating realization that you lost things that are irreplaceable. Don’t wait until a flood happens to know what to do. Here are a few points to consider so if it does happen, you will be ready for it.
Get Flood Insurance
Many times, your regular homeowner’s insurance will not cover flood damages unless you specifically design it to. While the insurance may cover water damage from broken pipes and faulty appliances, it more than likely will not cover damage from flash floods, heavy rain or rising water.
To be eligible for flood insurance, you must live in a flood zone or be at a high enough risk that flooding is possible. FEMA provides a map of flood areas, so if you are interested to know if you live in one, it’s simple to use.
Flood insurance can be an expensive purchase, but it’s usually available for under $1,000 a year. If you are worried that you will be in financial trouble after a flood, it may be in your best interest to research the rates in your area. It may save you a lot of cash down the road.
After a Flood
You main priority during a flood is getting yourself and your family to safety. If you know it’s coming, leave before your house is flooded and move to higher ground. Never drive through flood waters — it’s hard to tell how deep it is or how fast the current is moving.
Once the flood has subsided, check the structural integrity of your home before re-entering. Powerful floods can knock joints loose and make your house unsafe. Also, take as many photos as you can of the damage. Your insurance company will want to know the condition. They should also send an agent to your home to take photos of their own.
Make a list of all of the things that were destroyed, including furniture, computers and other possessions. You may be able to receive compensation for the belongings you lost as well as money to cover the damage to your home.
Cleaning Tips
Cleaning up flood damage can be a dangerous job. Along with debris that has been swept into your house, there’s the possibility of sewage and other toxic substances have entered your home. So hire a professional or use extra caution if you’re doing it yourself.
Basements are a major issue with flooding. Chances are, most of the debris will end up down there, causing a mess even after the waters subside. Mold can be an issue as well, which can start growing within 48 hours of the flooding. There are many websites out there if you want to learn about basement flooding solutions. Just use your best judgment and be careful when cleaning.
Let any waterlogged possessions air dry if you want to keep them. Leaving them in the sun too long or using artificial heat like a hair dryer can damage many possessions, so it’s best to set them near a fan and dry naturally. You should also gently remove any excess dirt or debris before drying.
When You’re Ready to Rebuild
Rebuilding after a flood may mean that you need a new home, or you just need help moving on from the disaster. If you don’t have flood insurance, or you need supplemental assistance because your insurance didn’t cover everything, there are options for you.
Volunteer agencies such as the Salvation Army and Red Cross offer financial and personal assistance to victims of all types of disasters, including flooding. They may give you money to purchase food and clothing, or give you blankets and even toys for your children. These organizations understand how hard it is to deal with disaster and they want to help any way they can.
There are also state and federal disaster programs that can help alleviate the financial burden of replacing your belongings or even your house. There are loans and grants available, and with a quick internet search, you should be able to find one you may qualify for.
Follow these tips and you’ll be back at home quicker than you think.
Anthony Baldwin works in the claims department for a home insurance company. As well as practical insurance matters, Anthony also tries to offer homeowners support, and hope, in the aftermath of a flood, fire or other catastrophe.
