3 Ways to Mitigate the Damages of a Flash Flood

Flooding isn’t something that any homeowner wants to deal with. Unfortunately, 98% of basements will see some type of water damage eventually. Moreover, water damage in your home can be one of the more expensive repairs you’ll have to deal with. When it comes to flooding, there is only so much you can do to prevent it. You certainly can’t snap your fingers and make the water go away, but you can use these tips to help protect your home.

Raise switches

Flash flooding can occur, well, in a flash. There is really no time to prepare for or mitigate the damage that it causes. It’s no secret that water and electricity don’t play well together, so your best defense is to raise all of your switches, sockets, breakers and exposed wiring well above the expected water level. Do your homework to find out the expected flood levels for your area and then hire general contractors to come in and make the necessary adjustments. You’ll also want to raise any climate control systems, such as water heaters and furnaces, above the water level as well.

Anchor outdoor equipment

Water can be a powerful force and can easily whisk away air conditioning units, generators, and even buildings. A good idea for any homeowner is to raise these pieces of equipment above the expected flood level, including fuel tanks and anything else that sits outside your home, and anchor them to ensure they stay put. You don’t want an air conditioning unit flying through your bay window during a flood and adding the already extensive flooding repair.

Do what you can beforehand

As stated before, there really isn’t much you can do to prepare for a flash flood. Still, things like keeping your gutters clean at all times can not only help keep the water out of your home during a flood, but can help deter water damage in general. Before the water hits hard, take everything you can to the upper levels of your home or do your best to raise them off of the ground. This includes furniture, rugs, televisions, and anything else that can be damaged by water. You should also shut off the electricity to your home.

Instead of having to deal with flooding repair, consider water proofing your home wherever possible. Granted, you may still have to deal with some flooding repair but it most likely won’t be as severe.