The FEMA flood division understands that floods can happen anytime and anywhere. Being prepared for a possible disaster can be the difference between keeping your home safe and losing much of what you own. According to Ogletree and Chivers Land Surveyors in Midgeville, GA, there are a few ways you can protect your home from a flood.

Here, the FEMA flood survey experts share five tips for minimizing damage:

• Survey Your Land for Flood Risk: Without a professional land assessment, it’s difficult to determine your property’s flood risk. Hire experienced land surveyors to assess your property’s elevation. This will help you understand which areas of your home are most at risk and allows you to develop a plan to prevent damage.
• Purchase Flood Insurance: Even with all the precautions in place, flood waters can rise quickly. If it enters your home, your homeowners insurance policy may not cover the cost of repairs. Purchase a flood insurance policy to keep your home safe and reduce your out-of-pocket expenses should water reach your home.
• Seal Your Home’s Exterior: While your siding and windows keep water out under normal circumstances, they may not be enough during a major event. Reseal the exterior of your home, repair loose siding, and make sure all trim and window frames are tightly sealed. The stronger your barriers, the less water will enter your home.
• Raise Your Electrical Outlets: If your property is located in what the FEMA Flood division would determine a high-risk area, consider moving your electrical outlets a few feet higher throughout your home. This protects your wiring and reduces the risk of an electrical fire should a flood occur.
• Install a Backflow Valve: Your home’s plumbing may be reliable, but it can back up during even minor floods. Rather than taking a chance on raw sewage flooding your house, let your local plumber install a backflow valve. This valve keeps sewage from coming up your drains even if the system is overloaded by flood waters.

Flood damage can be catastrophic. Let the residential lot survey specialists from Ogletree and Chivers Land Surveyors assess your property’s risk according to FEMA Flood standards. They offer their services throughout Eatonton, Gordon, Irwin, and Gray, GA. Visit their website for more information, and call (478) 453-3454 to schedule an appointment today.