El Niño weather is upon us and homeowners need to be watchful to make sure the heavy rains do not damage their home. You may not think your area is prone to flooding, but according to floodsmart.gov, nearly 20 percent of flood insurance claims come from moderate to low-risk areas. Moreover, your homeowners insurance policy does not cover flooding. Homeowners need to buy a separate flood insurance policy to cover flood damage.
While it is always best to take preventive measures, it is never too late to take steps to protect your home from water damage. The Silicon Valley Association of REALTORS® shares the following flood control tips from HouseLogic, a free source of information and tools from the National Association of REALTORS®.
1. Fix leaks immediately. Leaky roofs and foundation cracks allow water to get into your home, which can weaken the structure and provide a perfect habitat for mold. When you see wet spots on the ceiling or cracks in the foundation, fix them as soon as it's safe to get up on the roof or the material is dry enough to repair. Check that roofing shingles are secure.
2. Spring for extra roof protection. When it's time to replace your roof, spend a few hundred dollars more to install a rubber roof underlayment, a waterproof barrier that goes under the shingles and protects the roof from water intrusion.
3. Close foundation cracks with mortar and masonry caulk or hydraulic cement, which expands and fills gaps completely and costs only a few dollars. Don't patch solely with mortar or cement, which may crack again.
4. Clear gutters and drains. Keep gutters and drainage systems clear to carry water away from your home. Check storm drains on your street, as leaves and debris can block them, causing water to collect.
5. Invest in a battery-powered sump pump. Sump pumps let you pump water out of your home. Purchase battery-powered sump pump would be useful in case the power is off.
The key to protecting your home against water damage is maintenance. Keep your home in good repair. Do not procrastinate. Seal walls in basements with waterproofing compounds to prevent water from seeping through and create good drainage by clearing your gutters, drains and downspouts.
In case a flood is imminent, follow the following safety tips from the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA):
• Be prepared! Pack a bag with important items in case you need to evacuate. Don't forget to include needed medications.
• If advised to evacuate your home, do so immediately.
• If there is any possibility of a flash flood, move immediately to higher ground.
• If possible, bring in outdoor furniture and move essential items to an upper floor.
• Turn off utilities at the main switches or valves if instructed to do so. Disconnect electrical appliances.
Take the following precautions during a flood:
• Do not walk through moving water. As little as six inches (15 centimeters) of moving water can make you fall.
• If you have to walk in water, wherever possible, walk where the water is not moving. Use a stick to check the firmness of the ground in front of you.
• Do not drive into flooded areas. If floodwaters rise around your car, abandon the car and move to higher ground if you can do so safely.
• Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.
Visit http://www.houselogic.com/home-advice/disaster-insurance/protect-yourself-and-your-home-flooding/ for more tips on protecting your home against flooding. Also see the FEMA website at https://www.ready.gov/ for information on what to do before during and after severe weather.
The Silicon Valley Association of REALTORS® (SILVAR) is a professional trade organization representing over 4,000 REALTORS® and Affiliate members engaged in the real estate business on the Peninsula and in the South Bay. SILVAR promotes the highest ethical standards of real estate practice, serves as an advocate for homeownership and homeowners, and represents the interests of property owners in Silicon Valley.
The term "REALTOR®" is a registered collective membership mark which identifies a real estate professional who is a member of the National Association of REALTORS® and who subscribes to its strict Code of Ethics.
Variations of this article have appeared in local area newspapers.
For further information, please email or call the SILVAR office at (408) 200-0100.