Prepping For A Flood

Your normal home insurance policy covers many emergencies but it will not cover damage damages due to flood waters. Since you know that you are at risk, we at Complete Restoration would like to introduce four steps to protect your San Antonio house and investment.

Know Your Flood Zone

We all live in a flood zone. The question is, ‘what is our risk of flooding?’ Even someone that does not live near a body of water may be susceptible to heavy rainfall, water main breaks, or other sources of water less commonly thought of as sources of flooding. Flood insurance rate maps help explain the zone (high, moderate, low risk) in which your property falls. 

Plus, knowing that the creek behind your house runs from west to east, watch those rain storms to the west of you!

Work With The National Flood Insurance Program 

Flood insurance must be purchased from a regular insurance agent through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Regular homeowner’s insurance does not cover damages caused by flooding. It is important to note that there are different types of flood insurance. For example, some policies cover only the structure while other policies also include content. Your insurance agent will be able to explain the differences.  

If you would like to better understand the recommended flood risk designation of your property (high, moderate, low risk) assigned by the NFIP, access your flood maps on FEMA.gov. Be sure to note the map file date; many maps are outdated.  

When Weather Is On The Way, Have a Plan

Here in South Texas and the Hill Country, flash floods are unpredictable. Be sure to run through your checklist when the local weather team sounds the alarm:

• If your home has flooded in the past, expect water will try to enter the same method. Prepare physical barriers like sandbags, plastic tarps and waterproof tape. 
• Prepare the car: have an overnight bag, your I.D., money, credit cards and medicines in case you have to leave
• Keep insurance policies, documents, and other valuables in a safe-deposit box. You may need quick, easy access to these documents.  
• Get pets inside; have their supplies ready and and be sure they are wearing their tags
• You might lose power–charge phone now, organize flashlights and candles. 
• Be aware of stream, drainage channels, canyons and other areas known to flood suddenly.  

If you must prepare to evacuate, you should do the following:

• Secure your home. If you have time, bring in outdoor furniture. Move essential items to an upper floor.
• Turn off utilities at the main switches or valves if instructed to do so. Disconnect electrical appliances. Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.
• Turn Around, Don’t Drown! Never drive into running water.

Flood Damage Cleanup In San Antonio 

Get to know Complete Restoration before an emergency; call them immediately after you are flooded. Actually, whether you planned ahead with insurance or not, flood damage exposes your home and family to dangers. The cleanup is messy and complicated; you need a team that is qualified and familiar with all insurance process. Call us to start clean up now.