Is Your Property At Risk Of Flooding?

02 Dec, 2022Posted by Drain 247 0 commentIs Your Property At Risk Of Flooding?Here is What You Need to Know.?As we?ve seen in recent years, flooding can happen anywhere. Just because your property isn?t located near a river or the ocean, doesn?t mean it?s not at risk.Flash flooding from heavy rains can occur quickly and without warning, often causing extensive damage. Even if your property isn?t in a high-risk area, it?s still important to be aware of the potential for flooding and take steps to protect your property. Definition of FloodingFlooding occurs when water is present in an area above its normal level. Floods occur when there is excessive rainfall or snowmelt that overwhelms drainage systems designed to contain water during wet periods or during heavy rains or snowmelt from mountainsides (National Weather Service). A flood will continue until it spills over embankments or other barriers such as dams or levees (USACE). Causes of FloodingThere are two main types of flooding: natural and man-made.There are many different types of flooding, but the most common ones include:Natural Flooding: This type of flooding occurs when a storm causes water to flow over the land, usually in excess of what the land can handle. The most common types of natural flooding are caused by heavy rains, hurricanes, and snowmelt.Man-made Flooding: This type of flooding occurs when a dam or levee fails or a drainage system gets clogged so that too much water flows over the land. This kind of flooding can cause damage to homes and businesses, as well as impact public safety. Identifying Areas at Risk for FloodingIf you?re concerned about the possibility of flooding, there are a few things you can do to assess the risk. First, check local flood maps to see if your property is located in a high-risk area.Then consider the elevation of your property relative to nearby bodies of water or other potential sources of flooding. If your property is at a lower elevation than surrounding areas, it may be more susceptible to flooding.Taking steps to protect your property from flooding doesn?t have to be expensive or difficult. Simple things like installing gutters and downspouts on your home or sealing basement walls can make a big difference. By taking action now, you can help reduce the risk of flood damage in the future. Preparing Your Property for Potential FloodsFloods can happen without warning, so it?s important for you to be prepared for any potential problem. There are some simple things you can do to help protect your home and belongings in case of a flood.Install sump pumps and backflow valves to help protect against basement flooding. Sump pumps remove water that has accumulated in a sump pit, and backflow valves prevent sewage and stormwater from flowing back into your home.Elevate appliances and furniture off the floor in case of rising waters. This will help prevent damage if floodwaters enter your home.Make sure gutters are clear and downspouts are directed away from your home. This will help reduce the risk of water seeping into your basement or crawl space.Move valuable items to a higher level in your home. In the event of severe flooding, it?s important to have valuable items such as important documents, electronics, and heirlooms stored safely above ground level.?Insurance Coverage for Flood DamageYou can check what is covered on your homeowner?s policy insurance.Most homeowner?s insurance policies will not cover damage caused by a flood. So, if your home is flooded, you will most likely have to pay for the repairs and replacement of damaged property out of your own pocket.However, there are some exceptions. For example, if the flood is caused by a burst pipe or other covered event, your homeowner?s insurance may cover some of the damage.Consider purchasing additional flood insurance coverage if you live in an area prone to floods. If you live in an area that is prone to floods, it is a good idea to purchase additional flood insurance coverage. This way, if your home is flooded, you will be reimbursed for at least some of the damages.Contact Drain 247 for All Drainage ServicesFor more information about our blogs or our services, get in contact with our team. We operate 24hrs a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year, supporting domestic and commercial customers throughout London and Hertfordshire, offering them a superior service.Call us on 0800 612 8038 or send us an enquiry here.

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