Flooding occurs in every U.S. state and territory and can be a risk in many rural and urban locations.
Even if you don’t live in a flood plain, the potential for flooding could be a concern anywhere in the country. Flooding is the most common natural disaster in the U.S. and occurs in every state and territory. Areas with the highest risk of flooding are areas near rivers, at low water crossings, in recent burn areas in mountainous terrain and in urban areas where pavement and roofs concentrate rainfall runoff. In the spring, heavy rains falling on melting snowpack can cause streams and rivers to overflow and produce flash flooding.
Because most standard home insurance policies exclude coverage for surface water that damages property, you may need to obtain coverage through the National Flood Insurance Program. Your local independent insurance agent can advise you on the best choice to protect you from the financial loss a flood could bring. Meanwhile, you can take action to prevent or reduce the impact of flood losses at your home.
Before A Flood
Home Preparation
- Consult a professional to build up landscaping that slopes away from the home to help direct water away.
- Extend your downspouts as far as possible from your home.
- Install foundation flood vents on your home to allow flood waters to safely pass below your home.
- Purchase a flood protection door barrier or a perimeter flood barrier.
- Waterproof basement and crawlspace portions of your home to help make them resistant to flood damage.
- Waterproof the home’s exterior walls that are below ground level. This can also protect you from losses caused by hydrostatic water pressure.
- Test backup generators and sump pumps annually. If you have a battery backup on either, make sure they are charged and ready.
- Take an inventory of all major household items and valuables. Retain these documents in a safe place because they are important when filing insurance claims.
- Prioritize objects in an art collection so that you know in advance which will be removed from the home, and which will be stored in the home at a higher elevation.
Insurance and Emergency Planning
- Talk to your independent insurance agent about obtaining flood insurance on your home. Remember that the policy may take 30 days to take effect and that most standard home policies exclude coverage for surface water that damages the property. You may need to obtain coverage through the National Flood Insurance Program.
- Build an emergency kit with supplies you may need in case a flood leaves you without power, water or gas.
- Learn what to do before, during and after a flood.
- View active weather alerts for your location or other locations.
- Ensure your mobile device is configured to receive Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA)
During a Flood:
- When a flood is imminent or occurring, your first priority should be the physical safety of you, your loved ones, and your pets.
- Listen to local officials and obey any evacuation orders for your area during an emergency.
- Put any important documents in watertight packaging or a safety deposit box.
- Move furniture and valuables to a safe place, such as an attic or the highest floor of your home.
- Never attempt to drive on or through a flooded road.
- Listen for weather notifications in your area and know the difference between watches and warnings:
- Flood Watch: Flash flooding is possible within the designated water area – be alert.
- Flood Warning: Flash flooding or flooding has been reported or is imminent – take necessary precautions at once! Get to higher ground.
- Urban and Small Stream Advisory: Flooding of small streams, streets or low-lying areas such as railroad underpasses and urban storm drains is occurring.
- Flash Flood or Flood Statement: Follow-up information that gives details regarding a flash flood/flood event.
After a Flood:
- Pay attention to authorities for information and instructions
- Return home only when authorities say it is safe.
- Avoid wading in floodwater, which can be contaminated and contain dangerous debris. Underground or downed power lines can also electrically charge the water.
- Contact a restoration company. If safe to do so, start the air conditioner to begin the process of water evacuation from your home.
- Remove all wet items to one location, such as the garage.
- Start the conservation of your personal items immediately within a safe working space.
- Call your independent agent to discuss any damage.
