Property Owners

FEMA’s 2017 preliminary FIRMs may change your property’s flood risk which could affect your flood insurance rates and purchase requirements once these new FIRMs become effective. Building and construction requirements for your property could be affected as well.

After the FIRMs are finalized…

Take measures to protect yourself from future flooding, such as:

Protecting your home from flooding doesn’t have to cost a lot of money. Here are examples of some simple changes that can make a big difference:

  • Use flood damage resistant materials for walls, floors, and other parts of a building that are below the Base Flood Elevation (BFE).
  • Improve drainage and reduce excess rainwater– Drains that get blocked and rainwater that is not absorbed into the ground can cause flooding. Install gutters and downspouts; use gravel, pavers or grass for parking areas, driveways, and patios; add plants and trees to your property; and clear brush and trash away from drains.
  • Raise utility systems and appliances and install backflow valves: elevate the main breaker or fuse box and meters, air-conditioning units, furnace, water heaters or other heavy appliances that could be damaged during a flood. Install backflow to protect buildings from sewage backups.
  • Protecting Building Utilities From Flood Damage.
  • Anchor fuel tanks.(PDF, 368KB) Unanchored fuel tanks can easily be moved by flood waters which can pose a serious threat to you and your property.
  • Reducing Flood Risk to buildings that Cannot be elevated.  Sometimes it isn’t possible to elevate an entire building, but some parts can be and there are some measures that can be taken to help reduce future damage and risk.

Remember, before making changes to your property, contact your municipal officials to make sure you understand any building and permitting requirements that will apply. They can also provide information about federal and state grants and funding which may be available to help you too.