Due to recent flooding in Louisiana, FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) offers the following tips on what to do after a flood to make sure that local residents are familiar with hazards as they re-enter flooded areas and guidance on filing flood insurance claims for people with coverage through the NFIP.
“We encourage area residents who are not insured for flooding to protect themselves from the financial costs of future floods by obtaining flood insurance through the NFIP (National Flood Insurance Program),” FEMA adds. “You can learn about the NFIP and FloodSmart, the marketing and education campaign of the NFIP, by visiting FloodSmart.gov.
During a flood
Move to high ground. Whenever it floods, head to higher ground. Avoid areas subject to flooding. Be aware of streams, drainage channels and areas known to flood so you are not cut off from your evacuation routes.
Watch out for water. Don’t walk across flowing streams or drive on flooded roads. Moving water just six inches deep can knock you off your feet and cause a physical injury. Even two feet of water is enough to sweep an automobile off the road.
Listen for updates. Pay attention to the radio or TV for information. Be sure to follow the instructions of local authorities.
Turn off power. Shut down all utilities at the main power switch and shut the main gas valve if advised to do so. Don’t touch any electrical devices when you are wet or in standing water.
Following a flood
Check for damage. Look for structural damage before re-entering your house. If you suspect damage to water, gas, electric or sewer lines, contact authorities.
Remove wet items. Immediately remove wet carpeting, furniture and bedding. Any item holding moisture can produce mold within 24 to 48 hours. Clean and disinfect everything touched by floodwaters. Get cleanup tips at the Center for Disease and Control’s website.
Plan prior to repair. The rebuilding decisions you make now to lower your risk and insurance costs may result in big benefits over the long term. Contact your local building inspection or planning office or your county clerk’s office to get more information.
File your flood insurance claim. To file your claim, you’ll need your insurance company’s name, your policy number and a phone number where you can be reached. Take photos of any water in the house and anything damaged in your home. Create a detailed report on all damaged or lost items.
Ask about disaster assistance. Federal disaster assistance could possibly be available if the president has declared a federal disaster. When available, this assistance typically comes in the form of a loan and must be paid back with interest.
Rebuilding
Understand your flood insurance claim and policy. If you have questions, call 800-621-3362 FREE and use Option 2.
Get a repair permit from your local building official. A substantial damage determination is necessary for building repairs in the Special Flood Hazard Area. A building that’s damaged to 50 percent of its market value or greater is regarded as a substantially damaged building, which mandates that all repairs meet local flood damage prevention ordinances. That determination is actually a factor in future premium rating for a flood insurance policy and is also required for Increased Cost of Compliance claims.
Learn more about ICC (Increased Cost of Compliance Coverage). You may be able to obtain as much as an additional $30,000 toward elevating, relocating, or demolishing your home to comply with the local floodplain management requirements. Ask your adjustor about opening an ICC claim.
Ask about mitigation grants. Grants for elevating homes could become available as a result of flood event. Ask officials about applying to the State of Louisiana on your behalf for Hazard Mitigation Grant Program funding.
For more information
Contact the local building inspections or planning office or county clerk’s office to get additional information on local building requirements before repairing your structure. If you cannot locate a local contact, call your state NFIP coordinator.
For more information about flood insurance, visit FloodSmart.gov. To financially protect your property with a flood insurance policy, call your insurance agent or call 800-427-2419 FREE to find an agent in your area.
We work with several reputable insurance providers here in the Tampa Bay and Surrounding Areas, that will advise you if you need or are required to carry flood insurance for you new home. If you need to get their information simply click here or you can always call us at 813-300-7116.