How To Prevent Flooding In Your Home
Get to know the basics to flood-proof your home today.
Get to know the basics to flood-proof your home today.
According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), flooding is the USA’s number one disaster. Since there is a chance of flooding in all 50 states, floods can potentially affect everyone and every property. But how exactly can you prepare your home for a flooding event? We’ve done the research for you.
But first, what causes a flood?
The main causes of flooding include heavy rain, river overflow, and storm surges. However, while floods are a natural disaster, they can occur almost anywhere, not just near bodies of water. Flooding can also be caused by poor drainage, nearby construction, dam failures, or even a burst pipe.
Does house insurance cover flooding?
No, standard homeowners and renters insurance policies do not cover flood damage. However, you can purchase separate flood insurance to cover potential flood damage. Since 90% of all natural disasters in the U.S. involve some type of flooding, it’s recommended to have this coverage.
Here are 9 ways to prevent flooding in your home.
Preventing flooding in your home involves maintenance, security measures, and structural decisions. From installing water sensors and a sump pump to using landscaping to your advantage, here are nine tips to help protect your home from flooding.
Understanding your home’s vulnerability to flooding is the first step in protecting it. Technically, “is my house in a flood zone?” is not the right question to ask yourself. Since floods can happen almost anywhere, the right question is whether your home is in an area with a higher risk of flooding.
Check whether your property is in a high-risk flood zone using official flood maps, and consider the potential risks from nearby water sources or poor drainage. Knowing your risk level allows you to take targeted measures to safeguard your home.
Water sensors are essential for early flood detection. These devices alert you the moment they detect moisture or rising water levels, giving you precious time to act before significant damage occurs. Install them in vulnerable areas like basements, laundry rooms, or near water heaters.
Consider options like the Arlo Home Security System. With Arlo All-in-One Sensors, this alarm system can detect not only water but also freezing pipes, which can also cause floods. Plus, you can use it to protect windows and doors with motion detection, monitor temperature changes, light changes, and more.
To take security one step further, consider Professional Monitoring. In the case of an emergency, Security Experts will contact authorities even if you’re not available. Options like the Arlo Secure subscription also add new features to your Arlo Home Security System and cameras.
In general, Professional Monitoring is worth it because it not only provides extra peace of mind but may also qualify your home for a discount on your home insurance.
Effective drainage is key to preventing water buildup around your home. Clean gutters, downspouts, and drains regularly to ensure they’re functioning properly. Clear any debris that could obstruct water flow, and make sure the land around your home slopes away from the foundation to prevent water from pooling.
Landscaping isn’t just about aesthetics; it can also be a powerful defense against flooding. Consider planting native vegetation that absorbs water more effectively and creating rain gardens to manage runoff. Properly placed trees and shrubs can help divert water away from your home, reducing flood risk.
Additionally, outdoor security lighting can be especially helpful during nighttime floods. Options like the Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight Camera can enhance your overall safety and visibility during flooding events.
A sump pump is a critical tool for homes prone to basement flooding. It automatically pumps water out of your basement, keeping it dry and preventing water damage. Regularly test and maintain your sump pump to ensure it’s ready when you need it most.
Protecting your home’s essential systems is crucial in flood-prone areas. Elevate appliances like washers, dryers, and HVAC units above potential flood levels. This simple step can prevent costly damage and keep your home functional even after a flood.
Since standard homeowners insurance does not cover water damage, investing in flood insurance is a smart decision. Given that 90 percent of natural disasters in the U.S. involve some form of flooding, having flood insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind.
Security footage is always valuable for insurance claims. In the event of a flood, having a clear record of the incident and the damage to your home can ease and speed up the claim process with your insurance company. Wireless security cameras can document flooding incidents, providing you with essential evidence to support your claim and ensure a smoother recovery.
Consider installing a security camera like the Arlo 2nd Gen Essential. This budget-friendly camera is available in HD and 2K models, and features Color Night Vision, Motion Detection, and an Integrated Spotlight.
Plus, with the Arlo Secure subscription, you get 30 days of video history for your event recordings. With Cloud Storage, security footage of a flood incident will be safe and accessible through any smartphone with your Arlo account.
Waterproofing your home is an effective way to protect against flooding. Sealing cracks in your foundation, applying waterproof coatings to walls, and installing water-resistant materials can prevent water from entering your home. These measures add an extra layer of defense, keeping your home dry and safe.
Protect your home from flooding and more with Arlo.
With Arlo security cameras, floodlight cameras, and the Arlo Home Security System, you’re not only preventing damage from floods but also securing your home from other potential incidents. Don’t wait for bad luck to knock on your door. Protect your property and loved ones with a comprehensive security system like Arlo’s.
