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Water Restoration Planning in a Floodplain
Floodplains in Florida: How to Mitigate Potential Flooding Damage
Living in a floodplain can be fun and advantageous, especially if you value the fertile agricultural land and the serene and natural landscape. However, disadvantages exist, one being the possibilities of flooding and all the negative impacts that come along.
That said, people have lived for centuries in the floodplains, and many are still relocating to these beautiful, low-lying areas. The breathtaking views and nutrient-rich soils are irresistible. It’s easy to see why most of those moving to these floodplains are nature enthusiasts and those looking to explore their farming or gardening skills.
Even with the obvious flooding risks, there are several reasons why people still insist on building on floodplains. Many presume that flooding won’t happen, and if it does, it won’t affect them. Some have little trust with the flood maps, and they make the hard choices based on what they want and not what might happen. If your home is at risk, it’s paramount to have a water restoration company on the stand-still in case any emergencies arise.
Flood Zones and Floodplains
The National Flood Insurance Program classify flood zones into three categories:
1. Low to moderate risk zones (Zones B, C, & X),
2. High-risk zones (A Zones)
3. High-risk coastal areas (V Zones).
A given floodplain could have any of the above zones nearby, making that area generally risky and prone to flooding. However, some floodplains are considered safe unless there’s a sudden and unexpected rise in sea level. According to FEMA, the Federal Emergency Management Association, three types of floodplains are categorized based on the flooding risks. These are:
- Floodway – this is an area around the landmass that holds water during a flood event.
- 1% floodplain – this is a floodplain with a 1% chance of flooding in a year or 26% chance in a span of 30 years. Such floodplains are considered high-risk.
- 0.2% floodplain – this is a floodplain with a 0.2% chance of happening every year or a 6% chance in a span of 30 years. Such floodplains are considered a low-to-moderate risk.
Risks of Owning a Home or Business in a Floodplain Zone
Floodplain and flood zones help real estate developers and homeowners determine the risk levels of building or living in areas near waterways. Insurance agencies also use flood maps to determine the various floodplains and flood zones. This helps them determine the flood insurance requirements and related coverage costs.
Living in a floodplain zone poses some risks to your home or business. Floods can destroy thousands, and even millions of dollars worth of property, leading to the deterioration of health conditions, loss of value to your real estate property, and in adverse cases, can lead to loss of life.
To stay ahead of these challenges, it is necessary to prepare in advance and have all the crucial protection measures. Below are some tips to keep in mind.
- Always have appropriate and active flood insurance to cover you and your property.
- Consider flood-resistant materials for walls and floor in your rental or bought property.
- Elevate your home to have the basement above the lowest level indicated on the flood map.
- Have a nearby water restoration company on speed dial for the quick response and help minimize damages caused by a flood event.
- Store sensitive documents and valuable belonging in a high location not likely to be damaged in case of severe flooding.
Avoiding costly Damages from Flooding with a Water Restoration Company
Flooding doesn’t get any worse than being unprepared, uninsured, and having no one to help you avoid the costly yet preventable damages and losses. Since flooding is a natural disaster beyond human control, it pays to be always prepared for anything.
Besides having a solid insurance plan, you want to have licensed and experienced water damage restoration professionals who can quickly assess the damage level and help you recover your property’s value and mitigate further losses.
Closing Comments
As much as you want to stay positive and hope that flooding won’t occur soon, it doesn’t cost much having an effective back-up plan just in case things take another turn. The above tips aren’t only necessary but quite practical, and it might be too late catching up once a disaster strikes.
