If you’ve recently made a home purchase, you want to do everything possible to protect your home from damage. One source of damage to your home and property is flooding. You don’t have to live in a flood zone to experience flood damage. Flooding is possible anywhere in the U.S. Keep reading to learn more about the damage flooding can cause to your home and how to protect your home and property against flood damage.
U.S. Flood Statistics
According to the U.S. National Weather Service, flooding occurs nearly every day somewhere in the U.S. and its territories. Anytime prolonged rain occurs over many days, or when a short sudden downpour happens you can experience flood damage. Flooding can also occur if ice or debris clog the flow of a river or stream or if a levee or a dam should break. According to statistics, an average of 88 deaths occur each year due to flooding. In 2022, according to the National Weather Service report, there were 103 flood-related deaths In the U.S., and 42 of these deaths were individuals who were in their homes.
Areas most at risk for flooding
According to the National Severe Storms Laboratory (NOAA), although flooding can occur everywhere, flooding is more common in these areas:
- Densely populated areas
- Areas where heavy construction is happening such as the construction of highways, driveways, or parking lots
- Places near rivers or dams
- Locations close to mountains or steep hills
Preparing for a flood
You can take steps to safeguard your family and home from flood damage. The National Flood Insurance programs recommends the following protections:
- Elevate electrical cords from water exposure and anchor them
- Waterproof your basement and install a sump pump
- Make sure your gutters are clear from debris
- Move your personal property and furniture to the highest area of your home
The most important precaution is evacuating the area if a flood is imminent. Watch weather reports very closely and sign up for weather alerts. Don’t delay leaving if an evacuation is ordered for your area.
Purchase flood insurance to minimize potential losses
One of the most important protections you can take is purchasing a flood insurance policy. You can purchase a flood insurance policy from an insurance agent participating in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Flood insurance provides important protection for your home’s structure and systems such as plumbing and electrical fixtures, appliances, electronics, and your personal belongings. Coverage limits are typically $250,000 coverage for the home structure and $100,000 for its contents. The flood insurance policy will begin paying on a claim once you have met your policy’s deductible limit.
Don’t go without flood protection. You and your family’s safety is too important.
