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To help prevent damage caused by flooding, here are some tips that you can easily implement on your own—or with the help of a specialist.

Maintain twice a year

• Remove debris from nearest storm drain
• Clean out the eavestroughs
• Maintain plumbing, fixtures and appliances
• Test your sump pump
• Clean out your backwater valve

Simple upgrades

• Install window well covers
• Extend downspouts and sump pump discharge pipes
• Protect valuables and hazardous materials
• Remove obstructions to basement floor drain
• Install and maintain flood alarms

Complex upgrades

• Install window wells and water-resistant windows
• Disconnect and extend downspouts to direct water; cap foundation drains
• Correct grading to direct water
• Install a backwater valve
• Install backup sump pump and battery

What to do in case of a flood?

Finally, if despite everything, a disaster happens, here are some safety tips to implement quickly:

• To reduce the risk of fire or being electrocuted, turn off the gas and the electricity in your house. If the water has already flooded your home, let your electricity or natural gas supplier turn everything off.
• When the water level rises and threatens to reach your home, install wooden boards and build your sandbag dikes.
• Comply with the authorities if they ask you to leave your home because it means the danger is real. Make arrangements to stay some place where you can continue to follow physical distancing directives.
• Before you leave, find out what condition the roads are in.

What about insurance?

Depending on your situation, you may need additional coverage (or addendum) on your home insurance policy to cover flood risk. Talk to your broker to find out if you are covered and learn which coverage is best for you.

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