What To Do Before Moving Into a Flood Zone

5/1/2020 (Permalink)

Buying a home in a flood zone can be risky

Follow These Tips to Keep the Property Protected

You have just found your dream home in Levittown, PA. Yet it happens to be in the middle of a flood zone. Don’t let that stop you from purchasing the house you always wanted. Instead, follow these tips to keep the property protected.
1. Do Your Research
Not all flood zones are created equal. FEMA often gives this designation to homes that are at a low risk of flood damage. The FEMA website will provide more information about your property's exact risk.
2. Get an Elevation Certificate
As its name implies, an elevation certificate states just how high your home is and how likely it is that floodwaters could reach that level. You can usually get one from the property seller or developer. It may also be included in the deed. This document will help you and your lender determine the inherent risks of the property.
3. Be Prepared
No matter the flood zone you are in, you should prepare for the possibility of excess water damaging your home. Put together an emergency survival kit for you and your loved ones. Each kit should include food, water, and first aid supplies for three or four days. You may also want to pack thermal blankets, ponchos, flashlights, batteries, dust masks, and sanitation bags.
Next to your emergency kits, you should store the contact information for a local storm damage restoration company. You will need to call this business if parts of your home are destroyed by a flood.
4. Stay Informed
Your home's flood risk is not set in stone. Your town could build a levee or dam to protect properties from flooding. Some other factors may also increase the likelihood of flood damage. Keep up with the news so you know the odds of floodwaters harming your house.
Buying a home in a flood zone can be risky. However, you can mitigate this risk by doing your research, obtaining an elevation certificate, and preparing for the worst-case scenario.