
Risks of Basement Flooding: What Homeowners Should Know
Your home may be vulnerable to numerous risks and damages. Water-related damage is perhaps the most worrisome, given its potential remediation costs. It’s essential to understand such risks and take steps to reduce the likelihood of severe damage, such as from a flooded basement.
How Might a Basement Flood?
There are various ways a basement could flood, which may depend on your location and other factors. Flooding from an outside water source may be more likely among specific properties, such as coastal homes, creek- or lakeside dwellings, or properties in low-lying areas.
However, some water-related risk factors may affect homes regardless of location. Heavy rain intrusion, water backup or burst pipes are other possible ways a basement could flood.
How Can I Limit the Damage of Basement Flooding?
Thankfully, there are strategies you can consider for dealing with the risk of basement flooding, which may include the following:
- Secure water-related insurance. Home insurance doesn’t typically cover water damage from flooding, so additional coverage is key. Flood insurance can help you financially recover if a water source enters your home and causes damage; this coverage may even be required in certain areas if you have a federally backed mortgage.
Another consideration is sump overflow and water-backup coverage, which can help pay for damages if water enters your home from a sewer backup, a sump pump malfunction or similar scenarios.
- Address potential water entry points. Prevention is critical for reducing potential basement flooding. Steps may include sealing cracks near basement windows, ensuring gutters drain away from the foundation, having your sump pump inspected by a professional and regularly checking your pipes for leaks. In cold climates, insulating pipes, heating crawl spaces and allowing faucets to drip can help reduce the risk of potential burst pipes due to freezing.
Contact Ison Insurance Agency, Inc today to learn more about protecting your basement from flooding and related damages. We can help assess your property, make mitigation recommendations and suggest suitable coverage.
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.
Categories: Blog, Home Insurance