Flood Damage is happening more and more across America. Recently, we’ve seen historic rainfall cause catastrophic damage in Eastern Kentucky. Now, record rain is responsible for magnifying the water crisis in Jackson, Mississippi. No matter where you are, it is important to be ready to respond to flash flooding.
Flood Damage Mitigation is tricky. Are you handling it properly?
In addition to Flood Damage, FEMA says flooding can cause utility service outages, disrupt travel, and pollute drinking water supplies like in Jackson, Mississippi. Federal leaders say it is important to be ready before, during, and after a flood event.
Before a flooding event, leaders suggest property managers and agents do the following:
Take photos of property, valuable equipment, serial numbers of major appliances.
Safe important documents in a safe, dry space.
Elevate all the utilities you can like propane tanks, appliance, and heating systems.
Move Valuable Items and Furniture to a safe, dry space.
Clear gutters and drains of debris to avoid an accumulation of water.
Mother Nature is very powerful, and your response during an ongoing flooding event will be limited:
Property owners and agents should stay informed. Listen to local forecasts and following what’s happening in your area closely.
Monitor travel conditions regularly.
Heed any evacuation orders issued for the area.
Flood Damage: What to do after your property is damaged
In the moments after a disaster it is easy to not know where to begin, or how to start the recovery process. First, if you have a Federally funded property you need to contact HUD. There are strict guidelines to follow if a disaster impacts your property.
Document the damage. Take pictures and videos of all property, including personal, damaged by flooding.
Keep samples of wallpaper, carpeting, furniture upholstery, window treatments, etc. Insurance adjusters say the type and quality of materials can impact the cost of flood damage claims.
Also, provide receipts for damaged property if possible.
The EPA also offers additional guidance for property owners and managers dealing with mold and other flood damage.
Finally, if your property receives HUD funding, there are strict guidelines you must follow when reporting flood damage or other natural disasters on property.
