Fairfax County VA Home Search Website Blog

Flooding is a common hazard throughout the United States, often occurring in the driest states.  No one is immune from them, and they can sometimes strike without much warning. When you are prepared for a flood emergency, you stand a much better chance of surviving it.  Here are six tips for preparing Fairfax County VA homes for sale from floods.

1. Check your elevation.  Avoid buying or building a home in a floodplain.  Don’t take the risk of living in a flood-prone area unless you take the time to reinforce your home or elevate it.  Make sure you also build a barrier to keep flood water away from your home. 
2. Flood insurance.  Remember, most homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover flooding.  This could include excess water draining into your home from heavy rains.  If your home is in a flood prone area, consider purchasing a flood insurance policy.    
3. Have a plan.  Before you find yourself in an emergency situation, create a plan and have an emergency supply kit on hand.  Know where you will go if you need to evacuate.  Make arrangements for your pets.  Set aside important documents in a safe and easy to reach place in case you need to leave your home in a hurry.
4. Pay attention. Don’t ignore weather reports.  If a flash flood is possible, you need to get out of there.  You never know what kind of damage running water can do to your property.  Follow the instructions of your local authorities.
5. Secure your home.  If you have the time, move everything to the second floor or at least move items off the floor. Turn off the electricity. Disconnect electrical appliances.  Take with you important papers, like legal documents, identification, and insurance policies.
6. After a flood.  Don’t drink water in your home until you know it is safe for consumption.  Be careful walking or driving through standing water.  You never know when it’s electrified by down power lines or covering up a large hole.

Be prepared for natural disasters.  Are you thinking about buying Fairfax County VA homes for sale?  Call me today at 703-909-3939 or drop me a quick email me at Steve@HomeSearchWebsite.com for more tips on how to prepare your Fairfax County home for floods.

Steve Hawkins
Long and Foster REALTORS®
Springfield, Virginia
www.HomeSearchWebsite.com
Steve@HomeSearchWebsite.com
703-909-3939