What Every Homeowner Needs to Know About Flood Safety
Flooding is the most common and costly natural disaster in the U.S., and many homeowners may not realize how vulnerable their property really is. Whether you live near the coast, next to a river, or far from either, flood preparedness can make a major difference. Use the tips below to better understand your risk and what actions you can take to protect your home, your family, and your financial well-being.
Know Your Risk
Start by understanding your home’s exposure to flooding. Several tools are available to help assess your flood risk:
FEMA Flood Maps: Search your address to see if you’re in a high-risk flood zone.
National Centers for Environmental Information: Access regional flood history and weather data.
USGS WaterWatch and Streamgage Dashboard: View streamflow and river flood risk near your location.
Protect Your Property
Take practical steps to help reduce water damage and improve flood resilience:
- Install a sump pump with battery backup.
- Seal cracks in your foundation and basement walls.
- Re-grade your lawn to slope water away from your home.
- Add flood vents to crawlspaces or basements.
- Install sewer backflow valves to prevent backups.
- Keep essential documents and valuables on upper levels.
Be Ready to Act
Preparedness can protect your family and make recovery easier. Here’s how to stay ready:
- Create a household evacuation plan and practice it regularly.
- Assemble a flood emergency kit with water, food, flashlight, batteries, first aid supplies, medications, and key documents.
- Sign up for emergency alerts from your local government.
- Learn how to shut off your utilities (gas, water, electricity).
Check Your Insurance
Standard homeowners insurance policies typically do not cover flood damage. Talk to your insurance agent about adding protection. They may recommend:
- NFIP flood insurance through FEMA.
- Private flood insurance with potentially higher coverage limits or quicker activation.
- Sewer or sump pump endorsements for overflow or pump failure.
Stay Informed
For hurricanes or coastal flooding, consult FEMA or your local emergency management office. Taking proactive steps now could protect your home and family from costly damage later.
© 2025 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved. This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute insurance advice. For specific recommendations, contact Hodge, Hart & Schleifer.