Take Steps To Reduce Your Flood Risk

The first step is understanding your property’s flood risk. FEMA maps divide areas into flood zones, including:

• High-risk zones (A, AE, VE, V): Greater likelihood of flooding

• Moderate- to low-risk zones (B, C, X): Flooding is less frequent but still possible

Knowing your zone helps you make informed decisions about coverage and preventive measures. Holt Flood Insurance can help you determine your flood zone and how it affects your insurance rates.

2. Elevate Your Home and Utilities

The elevation of your property significantly impacts flood risk and insurance premiums. Consider:

• Raising your home above the Base Flood Elevation (BFE)

• Elevating critical utilities like electrical panels, HVAC systems, water heaters, and furnaces

• Placing appliances and valuable items on higher floors if possible

Homes elevated above BFE may qualify for lower insurance premiums, making this a smart long-term investment.

3. Improve Drainage Around Your Property

Water pooling near your home can increase the risk of flooding. Reduce risk by:

• Keeping gutters and downspouts clear of debris

• Extending downspouts away from your foundation

• Grading your yard to slope away from your home

• Installing French drains or other water diversion systems if needed

Proper drainage can help prevent both minor and major flooding issues.

4. Install Flood-Resistant Features

Structural improvements can reduce flood damage and may lower insurance premiums. Consider:

• Flood vents or openings in crawlspaces to allow water to flow safely

• Waterproof sealants on walls and foundations

• Backflow valves to prevent sewer backups

• Flood-resistant doors and windows in basements or ground-level areas

These measures help your home withstand flooding while reducing potential repair costs.

5. Protect Your Valuables

Even small floods can damage personal belongings. Reduce loss by:

• Storing important documents in waterproof containers

• Moving furniture, electronics, and valuable items to higher floors

• Elevating or securing outdoor equipment and landscaping features

Contents coverage through flood insurance can also help replace damaged items, but prevention is always better than repair.

6. Maintain Your Property Regularly

Routine maintenance is key to flood prevention:

• Inspect your foundation for cracks and seal them

• Check sump pumps to ensure they are working properly

• Remove debris and clean drainage channels around your property

Regular upkeep can reduce flood impact and maintain eligibility for potential insurance discounts.

7. Work With Flood Insurance Experts

Reducing your flood risk isn’t just about physical improvements — it’s also about having the right coverage. At Holt Flood Insurance, we:

• Evaluate your property’s flood risk

• Compare NFIP and private flood insurance options

• Identify ways to reduce premiums through improvements and elevation

• Provide fast, accurate quotes tailored to your home or business

We help you protect your property and minimize financial exposure in case of a flood.

Take Action Today

Floods can happen anywhere, but taking proactive steps can reduce your risk, protect your home, and lower insurance costs. Combining property improvements with the right flood insurance gives you peace of mind no matter what the weather brings.

Contact Holt Flood Insurance today to evaluate your flood risk and secure a policy that fits your needs.