By Carline Martin
This month, I would like to discuss the potential for flooding and flood damage. As we move into the wet fall and winter months, it would be wise to consider the risk of flooding affecting your home. In recent years, even owners of homes that are not in a flood zone and have never flooded before, are surprised to find that they have been impacted by flooding. Given the recent change in climate, it’s wise for us all to prepare for the unexpected. So, what should you do if you are faced with flooding in your home?
The first thing to do in this situation is to remove all standing water with a shop vac and eliminate the moisture with a dehumidifier. Then thoroughly clean the area with a bleach solution to remove or prevent mold from forming. It is a good idea to leave the dehumidifier running for a few days afterward. For a serious flood, it may be necessary to contact a remediation company, such as Serv Pro.
If you have flood insurance, you should contact your agent immediately. It is important to note that flood claims can be very difficult to navigate. Most homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover flooding and, typically, homeowner’s whose homes are not located in a flood plain do not opt for a separate flood policy. However, even Fema policies, issued through the National Flood Insurance Program, can be extremely limited. Coverage varies depending on the type of home and circumstances. You should discuss your own personal property needs with your insurance agent.
The best approach, however, is to prevent flooding in the first place. There are several companies who are skilled at waterproofing areas of your home that are prone to flooding. The installation of a French drain, sump pump and dehumidifiers can help prevent a costly clean-up in the future.
A French drain is a very simple and effective system that is designed to divert standing water away from your home by using gravity to direct water through gravel, into perforated pipes and away from your home. They have been used successfully for many years. Contrary to what the name implies, French drains were not invented in France but are named for their Massachusetts inventor, Henry French.
A sump pump is used to remove water that has entered your home. It activates once water has reached a certain level. It operates with electricity so it is important to make sure that you have a battery back-up. As most flooding occurs during storms, there is a good possibility that your electricity may be out.
Dehumidifiers will remove moisture that either builds up in a damp area or is residual from a flood. They serve an important purpose as excess moisture can cause mold and rot. A dehumidifier can be installed in any area of your home that experiences dampness but are most typically used in basements. You can purchase a free-standing dehumidifier yourself and place it where you need it. However, if you have a more serious issue with moisture or if you notice mold build up, you should consult a professional.
These are some very effective measures you can take to protect your home from flood damage. These systems are designed for ease and peace of mind for the homeowner. It would be wise to discuss how extensive a system you may need with a professional and then compare prices. Price varies depending on each home and each system is designed to address specific circumstances. Always be certain to ask for references from each company and speak with previous customers who have used their service.
Given the current changes in our climate and the increase in flooding, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
SEND ME YOUR QUESTIONS – If you have a real estate or home related question for which you would like a professional opinion, please email me at carlinemartin@bhhsne.com with “Sentinel” in the subject line. Each month, I will provide answers to one or two selected questions. Email me your Real questions. I look forward to hearing from you!
Carline Martin is a Greenwich native and Realtor with Berkshire Hathaway/New England Properties in Greenwich.
She may be reached at carlinemartin@bhhsne.com or at 203-249-9975.
This article does not offer the opinions of Berkshire Hathaway/New England Properties and is not intended to provide legal, medical or tax advice.
