Spring Flooding and How to Protect Your Home

May 19, 2022

Moisture intrusion is one of the greatest threats to a home’s health, and during spring, the risk of this damage is most significant, with snowmelts and heavy rainfall continually looming. Homeowners must ensure their home is protected to manage water year-round, even though springtime poses the most significant risk for water-related issues.

Water intrusion in the home can lead to severe issues, from mold growth to damaging the home’s foundation, which can become expensive and invasive problems to remedy. FEMA estimates that just one inch of water in a home can cause $25,000 worth of damages.

There are many steps a homeowner can take to prevent unwanted water from entering the home and protect it from severe damage.

Getting Started

Flood Map Research

Flooding is a natural occurrence and can happen almost anywhere. However, some areas across the country experience a higher risk of flooding.FEMA Flood Maps are an excellent resource to check if a home is in one of these regions. Getting a better understanding of the flood risk is a perfect start in protecting a home.

Call in a Specialist

Reach out to a professional who understands home flooding; a local floodplain manager, land surveyor, or home inspector can provide information on the impact of flooding on a home in a more personalized sense. These professionals come from various backgrounds, each bringing their focus to the table.

The floodplain manager works on the local ordinance and educates their communities on flooding-related issues. Land surveyors can provide you with an Elevation Certificate (EC) to help you get better insurance rates and lower your risk of flood damage. A home inspector will evaluate the home, looking for signs of moisture intrusion or water damage, and assess the home’s ability to manage water properly. They may recommend repairs or refer specialists to get a house in top working order.

Get Covered

Generally, homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage. That’s why it’s prudent to consider getting specific flood insurance to protect the home and your belongings in case of flood damage. Those who have government-backed mortgages and live in high-risk flood areas must carry this insurance. Even if the home is located outside a high-risk flood area, flooding can happen almost anywhere, so it is good to be protected if severe flooding occurs. The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) offers federally backed insurance policies covering direct physical losses to structures and belongings.

The Next Steps

Consider Installing a Sump Pump

The most effective way to prevent a basement from flooding is to install a sump pump system. Sump pumps primary function is to collect excess water in the ground surrounding the home and expel it away. The sump pump will require routine maintenance to work correctly like any home system.

Keep Gutters Clean

A gutter system is a crucial component that works to keep water away from the home. However, they must be correctly maintained and cleaned regularly. Plan to clean the gutters at least two times per year, typically in the Spring and Fall. Having the gutters function effectively will help water move safely away from the home and help avoid water from pooling around its structure, leading to water damage and moisture intrusion.

Prep the Basement and Crawlspace

If a home does experience flooding, it is likely to impact the basement or crawlspaces the most. Here are some steps to take to prepare these areas for potential flooding better:

  • Install a flood sensor that alerts the homeowner when water intrudes in these areas.
  • Install a flood vent to allow floodwater to pass through the crawlspace.
  • Raise appliances, utilities, and stored items off the ground.
  • Final Thoughts

    Flooding can pose a serious risk to homeowners, but you will be able to effectively handle whatever is thrown at you with the proper preparations and precautions! Taking the time to learn and protect your home will pay off in dividends if you ever experience any extreme flooding.


    To Read the Full Article

    ASHI offers its members unparalleled resources to advance their careers. ASHI offers training for inspectors at all levels of knowledge and experience, including resources about all major home systems. Members benefit from a vast network of experienced professionals, providing a community for mentorship and knowledge sharing..

    Learn More About Membership »

    In this Issue

    Infrared Cameras: Redefining the Visual Home Inspection

    For the past two decades, home inspectors have been inspecting using thermal imaging. By examining the heat given off by various property systems and components, many inspectors have discovered roof leaks, electrical issues, structural defects, and insulation anomalies.

    Metal Flue Pipe Holes

    Holes in metal flue pipes that extend from gas appliances can create a hazard. They may also indicate significant home performance issues.

    Why Deck Safety Should be Top of Mind

    With more than 50 million residential decks in the US, it is estimated that 30 million decks are past their useful life and need to be replaced or repaired, according to the North American Deck and Railing Association (NADRA). A significant percentage of decks are missing key components, are poorly constructed, lack proper maintenance, and have significant safety issues.

    An Inspector’s Experience with Technical Report Writing

    Suppose you have the passion to excel in the profession of home inspection. In that case, the only way to express your professionalism and competence is by learning how to craft first-class inspection reports. If you cannot communicate to your clients, homeowners, builders, repair contractors, attorneys, agents, and so forth what you’ve observed, what you think, and why you think it, you can never become a competent inspector.

    Subtle Ways to Impress on A Home Inspection

    It’s amazing what we get complimented on during a home inspection. We go to great lengths to improve our process, and in many cases things go unnoticed. I thought it would be fun to write an article on some small steps I do that do get noticed. Anyone using a telescoping ladder can probably relate to this phenomenon, as almost every time you bring it out, people are amazed. “That’s an amazing ladder; how cool,” is a phrase I have heard many times just using my everyday ladder.

    Harry Morrell on His Journey Through ASHI and the Keys to Great Business

    Harry Morrell was a teenager when he got started in the building and construction industry. “My first job in construction was as a roofer. I lied about my age when I was in high school and got onto one of the biggest roofing companies in Miami, Florida at the time,” he said. “I just loved construction.”

    What’s Happening in ASHI Edge?

    ASHI Edge has been live for a few months, and it’s been inspiring to see so many ASHI members taking advantage of the new education platform. We are constantly adding new courses, so if you haven’t taken one yet, check it out today on the ASHI Edge.

    Postcards From The Field

    It's Wacky Out There!

    Professional Networking

    Grow your professional network, find a mentor, network with the best, and best part of the community that’s making home inspection better every day.