Protecting Homes and Businesses During Floods

As part of National Flood Safety Awareness Week, the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety offers these tips to help homeowners prepare for floods:

• Keep drains, gutters and downspouts clear of debris.
• Prepare an evacuation plan with a kit that includes insurance documents, medications and critical items in case you need to leave your home for a few days.
• Inspect sump pumps and drains regularly to ensure proper operation.
• Have a licensed electrician raise electric components at least 12 inches above the expected flood levels for your area.
• To prevent sewage backup, have a licensed plumber install an interior or exterior backflow valve. Make sure your yard's grading (slope) directs water away from the building.
• Have the installation of your furnace, water heater and other permanent equipment modified so that they are elevated above the expected flood levels for your area.

In addition, Allstate insurance encourages property owners to talk to their local insurance agent about flood coverage. "Insurance coverage is critical,” says Mark Green, Allstate senior vice president. “Some consumers mistakenly believe that flood damage is covered by most standard home, renters or commercial insurance policies.” The average flood loss cost is $48,000 for homeowners and $85,000 on commercial property according to the National Flood Insurance Program. For more ways to prepare, respond and recover from a flood, click here.