Homeowner’s Guide to Flood Preparedness

Flooding is one of the most frequent and costly natural disasters in the U.S., yet it’s often misunderstood. While those in high-risk areas may be required to purchase flood insurance by their mortgage company, many homeowners in moderate or low-risk zones remain unaware of their exposure to flood risks. Climate change is driving more severe weather, leading to increased flooding even in places unaccustomed to such hazards.

While we can’t prevent floods from happening, we can certainly take steps to minimize the damage to our homes, finances, and health. Let’s walk through some practical, down-to-earth tips to help you do just that.

Common Types of Flooding in Vermont and New Hampshire

Flooding is a significant concern in Vermont and New Hampshire, where the natural landscape and weather patterns can lead to various types of flooding. Understanding the most common types of flooding in these states can help you better prepare for and respond to these events.

Flash Flooding

Flash flooding is a sudden and severe flood event that occurs within six hours of the causative factor, such as intense rainfall, dam failure, or ice jams. These floods can turn normally dry areas into rapidly flowing torrents, often catching residents off guard due to their swift onset.

River Flooding

River flooding happens when rivers overflow their banks, spilling water into surrounding areas that are typically dry. This type of flooding is often caused by prolonged heavy rainfall or snowmelt, leading to rising water levels that can impact communities near riverbanks.

Dam Breaks and Levee Failures

Dams and levees are designed to hold back water, but when they fail, the consequences can be catastrophic. Failures can occur suddenly due to overtopping, excessive seepage through the ground, or structural issues. These events often leave little time for warnings, making them particularly dangerous for nearby communities.

Check Your Flood Risk

One of the best ways to assess your flood risk is by using the Flood Map Service Center, a free tool provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

Simply enter your address into the Flood Map Service Center to view flood zone maps that highlight areas prone to flooding. These maps are regularly updated to reflect changes in terrain, weather patterns, and urban development. Understanding your risk level can help you make informed decisions about flood insurance, home improvements, and evacuation planning.

Even if you don’t live near a body of water, flooding can still occur due to heavy rainfall, clogged storm drains, or melting snow. By knowing your flood risk, you can take steps to protect your home, such as installing sump pumps, elevating utilities, or making sure your property has proper drainage.

Get Flood Insurance

Flooding isn’t just a problem for those in high-risk zones—it can happen anywhere, and climate change is making weather patterns increasingly unpredictable. Even if you live in a moderate or low-risk area, floods can still cause severe damage to your home. That’s why it’s crucial to take preventative measures and consider investing in flood insurance.

Many homeowners mistakenly believe their standard insurance policy covers all types of damage, but most don’t include flood coverage. This gap in protection can leave you financially vulnerable in the event of a flood. Scheduling an annual insurance check-up with your agent is a proactive way to ensure your home is fully protected. During this review, discuss your flood insurance options—it could provide the financial support you need if flooding does occur.

Pro Tip: Did you know that when flooding is predicted, National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) policyholders can get up to $1,000 to buy loss avoidance supplies like tarps and sandbags? Visit their website to learn more.

Take a Household Inventory

Documenting your possessions before a catastrophic loss such as a flood provides proof of ownership and indicates the condition of your items, making the claims process with your insurance company much smoother. Without this evidence, you may struggle to receive the compensation you deserve.

How to Create Your Inventory

• Photograph and Video Everything: Take clear photos and videos of your major household items, such as furniture, electronics, appliances, and any valuables. Capture the make, model, and serial numbers if possible.
• List and Describe Items: Create a detailed list with descriptions of each item, including the estimated value and any receipts or appraisals you have.
• Store Documents Safely: Keep your photos, videos, and lists in a safe, dry place, such as a waterproof document bag or a secure cloud storage service. This ensures they’re accessible even if your home sustains damage.

You’ll want to be proactive, especially if you live in a high-risk area or have experienced flooding before. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Taking a household inventory now can save you time, stress, and money if a flood occurs.

Store Important Documents & Valuables Safely

When a flood is on the horizon, every second counts. One of the best things you can do to protect your belongings is to move furniture and valuables to higher ground, such as an attic or the highest floor of your home. But this isn’t just about getting things out of harm’s way—it’s about knowing what to prioritize and how to do it safely.

Not all items can be salvaged after a flood. Furniture with upholstery, leather goods, mattresses, and clothing are particularly vulnerable. These items can absorb floodwater, which isn’t just rain—it’s a dangerous mix of chemicals, human and livestock waste, carcinogenic compounds, and other hazardous materials. That’s why the CDC emphasizes moving these items to safer locations whenever possible.

If you can, move upholstered furniture to the second floor or elevate it above the Base Flood Elevation (BFE). Important documents, jewelry, and other small valuables should go into a watertight safe, ideally stored somewhere high, like on a closet shelf.

Safely pack and stack what you can in sturdy storage containers. Don’t forget smaller but still important items like electronics, power cords, chargers, and sentimental objects like family photo albums. It’s these little things that often get overlooked but can be the hardest to lose.

One of the smartest moves you can make before a flood is to ensure your essential documents are stored securely. Important papers like birth certificates, passports, medical records, insurance policies, and property deeds are irreplaceable and can be difficult to recover once lost or damaged. Keep copies of these essential documents in a watertight safety deposit box or another secure location. If possible, keep digital copies on a secure cloud service or an encrypted external drive as an added layer of security.

Elevate and Anchor Electrical and Utilities

Reducing flood damage starts with being proactive. Here’s what you can do:

One of the best ways to protect your home and ensure safety during a flood is to elevate and securely anchor critical utilities. Here’s what you need to focus on:

Raise Electrical Panels and Wiring

Position electrical panels, sockets, and wiring above potential flood levels. Elevating these components helps prevent short circuits, electrical fires, and power loss during a flood.

Secure Propane Tanks

Unanchored propane tanks can be swept away, posing fire hazards and environmental risks. Anchor your tanks firmly to the ground to keep them in place, even in high waters.

Elevate Appliances and Heating Systems

Protect your appliances and heating systems by raising them off the ground. Elevating them minimizes the risk of water damage, prolonging their lifespan and functionality. Taking these precautions before a flood can help safeguard your home, reduce potential damage, and keep your family safe.

Seal Foundations and Walls

Even small gaps can allow water to seep in, causing damage to your property, mold growth, and structural issues over time. Here are some quick tips to help safeguard your home:

1. Inspect Regularly: Regularly inspect your basement walls and foundation for any cracks or gaps. Look for even the smallest openings that could allow water to enter.
2. Use Quality Sealants: Use a high-quality waterproof sealant or epoxy injection to fill in any cracks. This creates a strong barrier against water penetration.
3. Check for Moisture: After sealing, monitor the areas for any signs of moisture or leaks, especially after heavy rain. If you notice any persistent dampness, consider professional help.

Choose Flood-Resistant Building Materials

When it comes to safeguarding your home from potential flood damage, selecting the right building materials is key. For flooring, consider options like ceramic tile and vinyl instead of wood, which can warp and rot when exposed to water. Movable rugs are also a smarter choice over carpeting, which is difficult to dry out and can harbor mold.

For your walls, materials like lime plaster, cement board, and concrete offer superior resistance to water damage. These options not only stand up to moisture but also help prevent long-term issues such as mold growth and structural weakening.

By choosing flood-resistant materials, you can significantly reduce the impact of water damage and protect your home in the event of a flood.

Install a Sump Pump

Installing a sump pump is a smart way to protect your home from groundwater seepage during heavy rain or flooding. A sump pump works by removing excess water from your basement, keeping your home dry and free from damage. Here’s a quick guide to help you get started.

Choose the Right Sump Pump

Select a sump pump with a battery-operated backup. This ensures that your pump will continue to function even during a power outage, a common occurrence during severe weather.

Follow Local Codes and Regulations

Before installing, contact a licensed plumber to ensure the job is done up to code. Some towns prohibit connecting sump pumps to sanitary sewer systems because it can lead to sewer backups. A professional can guide you on where to safely discharge the water.

Proper Discharge Location

Make sure your sump pump discharge isn’t directed at neighboring properties or public walkways, which can cause issues for others and lead to fines. Instead, discharge the water safely into your yard or a designated drainage area.

Maintain Your Sump Pump

To keep your sump pump in good working order, install a water alarm that alerts you to any potential failures. Regular maintenance checks will help ensure your pump operates when you need it most.

Prevent Sewer Backups

Sewer backups can be a nightmare but there are steps you can take to minimize the risk. Installing drain plugs and sewer backflow prevention valves is a proactive way to keep sewage from entering your home during a flood. These devices act as barriers, blocking the flow of wastewater back into your drains.

Another crucial step is to avoid pouring fats, oils, or grease down your drains. These substances solidify in pipes, leading to blockages that are one of the most common causes of sewer system backups. Dispose of grease in a separate container and throw it in the trash instead.

Maintain Your Drainage System

Proper drainage is crucial for protecting your home, especially in the event of heavy rain or flooding. Regular maintenance of both indoor and outdoor drainage systems can make a significant difference.

Keep Gutters and Downspouts Clear
Make sure to regularly remove debris like leaves and twigs from gutters and downspouts. This simple task prevents water from building up around your home, which can lead to costly damage.

Prevent Indoor Clogs
Inside your home, use drain guards in sinks and showers to catch hair, dirt, and other debris. Regular cleaning and maintenance of these guards help prevent clogs that could lead to overflowing pipes.

Maintain Proper Outdoor Drainage
For outdoor drainage, ensure that your slope drainage system remains clear of obstructions and is properly graded. Overgrown grass or improper incline can hinder water flow, leading to potential flooding issues.

Protect Your Foundation
It’s also essential to ensure the ground around your home slopes away from your foundation. This prevents water from accumulating near your home, reducing the risk of a leaking basement or soggy ground. If you notice any signs of poor drainage, such as persistent wet spots, consider consulting a contractor to address the issue before it becomes a major problem.

Protect Your Home with Temporary Flood Barriers

When a flood is imminent, every moment counts. One of the most effective ways to safeguard your home is by using temporary flood barriers. These barriers, such as sandbags, inflatable dams, or other innovative solutions, can help divert water away from your property, minimizing the risk of water damage.

Sandbags are a tried-and-true method, easily accessible and relatively simple to deploy. For those looking for a more advanced solution, inflatable dams offer quick setup and can cover larger areas with less effort. No matter which option you choose, the key is to act swiftly and strategically.

By preparing in advance and having temporary flood barriers ready, you can protect your home and avoid the costly damage that flooding can cause

Invest in a Generator

Floods can knock out power for extended periods, so having a generator on hand—whether whole-house or portable—can keep essential systems running.

Therefore, having a generator can be a game-changer. Whether you opt for a whole-house generator or a portable unit, it ensures that essential systems like your sump pump and refrigerator keep running, protecting your home and preserving your food. Investing in a generator provides peace of mind, knowing that you’re prepared for the unexpected, no matter how severe the weather. Don’t wait for the next storm—invest in a generator today.

Inquire About Flood Mitigation Assistance

If you’re a homeowner with a flood insurance policy through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), you may be eligible for FEMA’s Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) program. This grant program offers funding to states and local communities to help residents like you make essential upgrades to your home.

The FMA program can assist with modifications that protect against floods and hurricanes, such as installing hurricane shutters or elevating your home’s foundation. These improvements can significantly reduce the risk of damage during severe weather events. Best of all, the grants may cover part or even all of the costs, making it easier for you to enhance your home’s resilience.

Have a Contractor Contact on File

When a flood strikes, the demand for contractors and builders skyrockets, leading to potential delays in repairing your home. To avoid this, it’s crucial to have the contact information of a trusted contractor on file.

The moment it’s safe, start the claims process by documenting the damage with photos. Send these to your contractor right away and schedule an evaluation of your property.

If you don’t have a contractor in mind, ask friends, neighbors, or your insurance carrier for recommendations. Being prepared with a reliable contact can save you valuable time and stress in an emergency.

Final Thoughts

Floods are unpredictable, but being prepared can make a world of difference. Take these steps seriously, stay informed, and keep your family safe. With the right precautions, you can reduce the impact of flooding on your home and ensure you’re ready for whatever comes your way.

Need to learn more about flood insurance?

Our agents are ready to help, so contact us to learn how we can customize your insurance policies to meet your needs.

*Disclaimer: We offer content for informational purposes; Co-operative Insurance Companies may not provide all the services or products listed here. Please get in touch with your local agent to learn how we can help with your insurance needs.

Sources

Bankrate. How to Prevent Your Home From Flooding. https://www.bankrate.com/insurance/homeowners-insurance/how-to-prevent-home-from-flooding

Federal Emergency Management Agency. Be Prepared for a Flood. https://community.fema.gov/ProtectiveActions/s/article/Flood

Federal Emergency Management Agency. FEMA Flood Map Service Center. https://msc.fema.gov/portal/home.xhtml

Federal Emergency Management Agency. Reducing Flood Risks in Residential Buildings That Cannot be Elevated.  https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/2020-07/fema_P1037_reducing_flood_risk_residential_buildings_cannot_be_elevated_2015.pdf

National Weather Service. Flooding in Vermont. https://www.weather.gov/safety/flood-states-vt Ready.gov. Floods.https://www.ready.gov/floods