5 Ways to Flood Proof Your House

10/20/2020 (Permalink)

Take good care of your sump pump

Flood Safety Measures

Flooding is one of the most common natural disasters that homeowners in the United States have to deal with. Water damage can wreck havoc, costing you hundreds, if not thousands, in primary and secondary damage. Protecting your home in Mount Prospect, IL starts with taking precautionary flood safety measures. Abide by the following safety tips to help flood proof your property.

1. Protect and Relocate Valuable Possessions.
Any important possessions that aren't waterproof need to be sealed in containers and relocated to high shelves on the top floor of your home. This includes important documents, irreplaceable family heirlooms and electronic devices.

2. Install a Back Flow Valve.
Interior and exterior water valves can help prevent sewage and ground water from backing up into your home. Install these devices on all pipes that enter the home, just to cover all your bases.

3. Modify Indoor Electrical Systems.
The Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety recommends that all sockets, wiring, switches and circuit breakers sit at least one foot above the projected flood level. If any of your equipment is below this line, then you need to practice proper flood safety by modifying and moving the devices.
4. Control Water Flow Outside Your House.
Your property is significantly less likely to flood if the water is redirected in the opposite direction. Most homes are built on somewhat elevated surfaces, but you may still need to take additional measures. Modify the slope of the ground near your property so that the water runs away from the house.

5. Take Good Care of Your Sump Pump.
Your home's sump pump is designed to drain ground water and prevent flooding. However, it can't perform its job correctly if you don't practice proper machine maintenance. Make sure to regularly remove accumulating debris, test the pipes and change the backup batteries when necessary.
The above flood safety measures can help prevent you, as a homeowner, from having to deal with unnecessary water damage. If your property has fallen victim to water damage caused by flooding, then you need to contact flood remediation experts as soon as you can.