Besieged by floods? Here’s what you can do. The North Dakota Department of Insurance details some steps you can follow to protect your property prior to and after floods have ravaged the area.
Before the Flood:
To mitigate potential damages to life and property the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has compiled a list of steps:
Select a proper site, which is way above the flood zone or to build your home on.
Your site planning should include evaluation of base flood levels. The construction should be such that the lowest living level is above the base flood level.
The landscaping plan for the new site should consider draining water away from the house, mainly in case of flash flooding. Underground drain tiles and sump pumps, if not mandatory by state laws, should be installed.
Installing a backflow valve in the sewer line or septic system is effective in temporarily preventing sewer back up.
The plan for the interiors should keep the electrical system components above the base flood level. All electrical wiring, outlets, switches, meters and service panel must be above this level.
Fuel tanks should be anchored or held in place firmly so that they will not float. The vent and filler tubes should be raised above the base flood level.
Install the HVAC systems above the base flood level or render them flood proof if possible.
Basements and cellars are often used as functional living and storage areas. Rethink about usage of the basement.
Most crucially, think about buying flood insurance. There is no good time to buy a policy. Do not wait till the floods are at your doorstep to buy one. Purchase flood insurance to cover the building and contents.
Insurance Help