What to do before a flood
Take steps to protect your home and loved ones throughout the year and when flooding is predicted in your community.
Are you SET?
Learn three ways to protect your home and belongings against flood damage.
Store
Important Documents.
Save copies of birth certificates, passports, medical records and insurance papers in a safe, dry place. Keep original documents in a watertight safety deposit box.
Elevate
and Anchor Utilities.
Elevate and anchor your critical utilities, including electrical panels, propane tanks, sockets, wiring, appliances and heating systems.
Toss
Out Debris.
Make sure you clear any debris from gutters and downspouts to avoid water overflowing.
Elevate or Move your Furniture
When flooding is predicted or imminent, move furniture and valuables to a safe place, such as your attic or the highest floor of your home.
More Steps to Minimize Your Flood Losses
Know your Flood Risk.
Search your address in the Flood Map Service Center to learn if you live, work or travel in areas that are prone to flooding.
Take a Household Inventory
Take photos and videos of all major household items and valuables. Retain these documents in a safe place because they are important when filing insurance claims.
Waterproof Your Basement
Install a water alarm and maintain a working sump pump to protect your basement. Ensure the sump pump has a back-up battery in case of power failure.
Learn More
Want more flood preparedness tips? Visit Ready.gov/floods.
Additional Resources for Protecting Your Home
Protecting Manufactured Homes from Floods and Other Hazards
Information on protecting your mobile home.
Learn MoreProtecting Utilities from Flood Damage
Information on protecting critical utilities, like water heaters and HVAC systems.
Learn MoreReducing Flood Risk to Residential Buildings that Cannot be Elevated
Mitigation options that don’t involve elevating your home.
Learn MoreDid you know?
When flooding is imminent or predicted, National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) policyholders are eligible to receive up to $1,000 to purchase loss avoidance supplies like tarps, sandbags and more.
Personal Safety Comes First
The changing climate is a force multiplier – increasing the number of storms, floods, fires, and extreme temperatures that threaten the well-being of people across our nation. When flooding is imminent, your first priority is the physical safety of yourself and your loved ones. Check local weather reports, sign up for emergency alerts and have an evacuation plan and a communication plan in case of a power outage.
Get Flood Insurance
Most homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage. Check with your agent to ensure you have the right coverage to stay protected.
Find a ProviderGet Renters Flood Insurance
If you're a renter, the NFIP offers affordable flood insurance to protect the things you care about. Check that your landlord has coverage for your building as well.
Learn More