Things You’ll Regret Not Doing When a Flood Hits

Flash floods can turn your world upside down in the blink of an eye. They’re unpredictable, devastating, and can catch you off guard. When waters rise, you don’t want to be left wishing you had done something differently. As little as 1 inch of flooding can cause over $25,000 of damage on a 2,500 square foot home.¹ Here’s a list of things you’ll regret not doing in a flood’s aftermath.

1. Creating a Family Evacuation Plan

When disaster looms, you don’t want to be scrambling to figure out where to go and how to get there. Create a detailed evacuation plan with your family. Know the safest routes, designated meeting points, and important contact information.

For example, imagine you live in an area prone to flooding, and your family doesn’t have a clear evacuation plan. When the flood hits, you might find yourselves separated, unable to communicate, and unsure of where to find safety. This is the kind of scenario you want to avoid through careful planning.

2. Stocking Up on Emergency Supplies

Waiting until the last minute to stock up on essentials like non-perishable food, water, first-aid supplies, and flashlights is a recipe for regret. Prepare an emergency kit ahead of time so you’re ready for anything.

Without an emergency supply kit, when a flood warning is issued, you could easily find empty store shelves and limited supplies, if any. Having your kit in place ensures you have what you need when you need it, without the stress and chaos.

3. Elevating Your Valuables

Protect your cherished possessions and important documents from floodwaters. Elevate them to higher ground or store them in waterproof containers. Picture your beloved family photo albums or irreplaceable documents submerged in floodwater because you didn’t take the time to safeguard them. It’s a heartbreaking idea that can be prevented with simple precautions.

4. Staying Informed

Ignoring weather forecasts and flood warnings is a sure way to regret. Stay informed, sign up for local alerts, and invest in a battery-powered weather radio. It’ll keep you in the loop even when the power’s out.

Consider a scenario where you disregard weather warnings and underestimate the severity of an approaching storm. The result? You find yourself caught off guard, with little time to prepare or evacuate. Staying informed and heeding warnings can mean the difference between safety and chaos.

5. Documenting Your Belongings

Imagine trying to list all the things you lost in a flood after the fact. It’s a headache you can avoid. Take photos or videos of your possessions and keep important documents in a waterproof safe.

Without proper documentation, the process of claiming insurance for lost belongings becomes arduous. You may forget what you had, and the burden of proof can be overwhelming during an already stressful time.

6. Flood-Proofing Your Home

When it comes to facing the destructive force of a flood, a proactive approach can make all the difference. Taking steps to flood-proof your home is like building a fortress against rising waters. Here are some key areas that can save you from a world of trouble:

• If your property has a history of flooding, installing flood barriers or flood panels can be a game-changer. These keep floodwater out of your home by creating a protective barrier. In some cases, these barriers can be permanent, while sandbags can be deployed when a flood is imminent.

• Even a small crack in your foundation can allow a surprising amount of water to seep into your home during a flood. It’s not just about keeping the water out; it’s also about preventing structural damage and mold growth. Properly sealing these areas is a smart investment in the longevity and safety of your home.

• Electrical systems (HVAC equipment and panels) are essential for your comfort and safety. However, they can be easily compromised in a storm. Without elevation, you risk damage to these critical systems, leading to expensive repairs and prolonged discomfort. To prevent this, elevating these systems can be a game-changer.

7. Securing Flood Insurance

Here’s why you should consider flood insurance: When a flood strikes, it can wreak havoc on your property, causing extensive damage and leaving you with a hefty repair bill. Most standard homeowners insurance won’t cover flood damage, leaving you financially vulnerable. Without flood insurance, you could be forced to bear the full cost of rebuilding or repairing your home, replacing your belongings, and dealing with the aftermath of the flood. The National Flood Insurance Program instituted by FEMA had its fourth highest payout ever in 2022 with 3.9 billion dollars in payouts.²

If you don’t have FEMA insurance, it’s time to look into private flood insurance. It can be your financial lifeline, providing the peace of mind and support you need to recover from a disaster. Don’t regret not having it when the water starts rising – protect your home, your family, and your future with flood insurance.

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Answer Financial can help you compare, buy and often save the smart way on insurance. So before you shop, remember to rely on your insurance experts to find you the right home insurance plan for your needs and budget.