Soaked rugs, damaged walls, warped flooring and ruined furniture are only the beginning of what landlords and property management companies deal with after flood waters hit their area. Flooding can be caused by heavy rains, severe storms, poor drainage, plumbing issues, and other water-related issues. The key is to be prepared before, during and after your rental home floods.
Before
- Check with an insurance agent about flood insurance for the home.
- Have the tenant prepare a home inventory of furniture and valuables in the home, including details and pictures.
- Have them put together a family emergency plan and make sure everyone in the household knows what to do.
- They should prepare an emergency kit, including rental insurance policy numbers and phone numbers, a change of clothes for each family member, essential toiletries, bottled water and non-perishable food items, flashlights, batteries, blankets, first aid kit, disposable cleaning cloths, insect repellent, and enough cash to last a few days.
- If you have a leak in your rental home, have it repaired immediately. Waiting to do repairs often results in flooding that causes structure or mold damage to the home.
During
- Watch the weather for high amounts of rain in a short time period or tropical storms headed your way. Listen carefully to advisories, follow directions from local officials, and evacuate tenants if needed.
- If you have a second floor or large attic, have tenants move special furniture, family photographs, area rugs, computers, televisions, artwork, and other expensive items to a higher level to keep them dry.
- If flooding is about to reach your home, shut off the electricity, gas, and water to the home.
- Never touch electrical sources if you are standing in water.
- Never walk or drive through high floodwaters.
After
- Report damage to your insurance company as soon as possible.
- Take photos of the damaged areas both inside and outside to give to your insurance company.
- Never turn on the electrical power to your home until a professional makes sure it's safe to do so.
- Never use a home vacuum to remove water.
