Tips for Reducing Your Flood Risk in Iowa

Flooding can be a common and serious threat in Iowa, given the state’s extensive river systems and susceptibility to severe weather. Protecting your home and property from flood damage requires proactive measures and informed decisions. By understanding your risk and implementing effective mitigation tactics, you can minimize the impact of flooding.

How to Prevent Flooding in Your Home

Consider the following best practices to help reduce your flood risk and protect your property:

• Understand your flood risk. The first step in reducing flood risk is understanding it. Use the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Flood Map Service Center to determine if your property is in a flood-prone area. Knowing your risk level can help you make educated choices about necessary precautions.
• Elevate and protect utilities. Elevate critical utilities, including electrical panels, heating systems and water heaters, above potential flood levels. This can prevent large-scale flood damage and reduce related repair costs. Additionally, consider installing backflow valves to prevent floodwater from entering your home through drains.
• Use flood-resistant building materials. When constructing or renovating your home, use flood-resistant building materials for walls, floors and other surfaces. In particular, tile, concrete and pressure-treated wood can withstand water damage better than traditional building materials.
• Create barriers. Construct barriers to prevent floodwater from entering your home. This may include levees, berms or floodwalls. Furthermore, landscaping with native plants can help absorb excess water and reduce runoff.
• Maintain proper drainage. Check that your property’s drainage systems are clear and functioning correctly. Regularly clean gutters, downspouts and storm drains to prevent blockages that could lead to flooding.
• Purchase flood insurance. Flood insurance is a crucial component of flood risk management. In Iowa, flood insurance is available through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and private insurers.

Why You Need Flood Insurance

Standard homeowners insurance policies typically exclude coverage for flood damage. Flood insurance can offer financial protection against losses caused by flooding, which can be substantial. According to FEMA, just 1 inch of water can cause up to $25,000 in damage.

Learn More

To explore flood insurance options near you, contact Ackerson Insurance.

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.