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Flood/water damage cleanup safety and loss prevention tips.

Safety First:

To avoid risk of fire or electrical shock, turn off electricity before beginning work.

Always remember that flooded ceilings may fall at any time.

Flooding in areas above other floors in your home may result in water leaking into your walls and/ or ceiling, creating hazards from fire and electric shock.

 

Take the following steps in case of flooding or water leakage to avoid unnecessary damage to your home and your possessions.

 

Shut off the source of water. Know where your water shut off valves are. If this is done quickly the extent of flooding can be minimized and water damage to your property will be reduced.

Remove personal items from the flooded area as soon as possible. Furniture left on wet carpeting or in flooded areas often swells and/or bleeds. Water visible on carpet surface has likely spread further beneath through the padding, so move items and furniture as far away from flooded areas as possible.

Flooded walls, floors, and carpets should have the water removed using professional grade equipment. Not properly cleaning up flood water will lead to potentially harmful mold and mildew growth in walls or underneath carpets and floors. The drying process should be started quickly by properly trained professionals to minimize property damage.

 

Why use Five Star Restoration?

 

The local advantage

 

Five Star Restoration is a locally owned and operated business providing a variety of cleaning and repair services in the northern Illinois counties of Dekalb,Winnebago,Ogle,Boone,and Mchenry.Our professional technicians have access to the highest quality cleaning in the industry, and are fully trained to put them to the best use when restoring your home or business from water damage due to flooding. Five Star Restoration has extensive experience in all the various aspects of repairing homes and all structures from flooding,fire,storm damage,hail,wind,vandalism,sewage, and tree damage.We have the equipment and the man power to ensure your home or business is restored as quickly as possible and to your complete satisfaction.

 

We handle all insurance documentation

We have ongoing relationships with local insurance agents and other local businesses related to this field.This means we can handle all of the insurance headaches normally associated with flood damage restoration projects for you, and that your home will be dried and restored as quickly as possible.

Five Star Restoration is fully licensed,certified, and insured.

 

Our obligation…is your complete restoration.

 

The process of restoring your home from flood water damage will be conducted with you and your families comfort in mind. Areas of your home affected by flooding will be prioritized according to your needs and safety. We understand you don’t just want any stranger in your home. Our courteous professional staff will arrive on time and will always be considerate of you and your family.

If you require flood damage restoration or any of our services please call

24 hours a day

815-519-2639

 

 

 

Flood

Floods are one of the most common hazards in the United States. Flood effects can be local, impacting a neighborhood or community, or very large, affecting entire river basins and multiple states.

However, all floods are not alike. Some floods develop slowly, sometimes over a period of days. But flash floods can develop quickly, sometimes in just a few minutes and without any visible signs of rain. Flash floods often have a dangerous wall of roaring water that carries rocks, mud, and other debris and can sweep away most things in its path. Overland flooding occurs outside a defined river or stream, such as when a levee is breached, but still can be destructive. Flooding can also occur when a dam breaks, producing effects similar to flash floods.

Be aware of flood hazards no matter where you live, but especially if you live in a low-lying area, near water or downstream from a dam. Even very small streams, gullies, creeks, culverts, dry streambeds, or low-lying ground that appear harmless in dry weather can flood. Every state is at risk from this hazard.

What is the flood risk where I live?

How can I protect myself from a flood?

Flood: Know Your Terms

Familiarize yourself with these terms to help identify a flood hazard:

Flood Watch:
Flooding is possible. Tune in to NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio, or television for information.

Flash Flood Watch:
Flash flooding is possible. Be prepared to move to higher ground; listen to NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio, or television for information.

Flood Warning:
Flooding is occurring or will occur soon; if advised to evacuate, do so immediately.

Flash Flood Warning:
A flash flood is occurring; seek higher ground on foot immediately.

Before a Flood

To prepare for a flood, you should:

  • Avoid building in a floodprone area unless you elevate and reinforce your home.
  • Elevate the furnace, water heater, and electric panel if susceptible to flooding.
  • Install "check valves" in sewer traps to prevent floodwater from backing up into the drains of your home.
  • Contact community officials to find out if they are planning to construct barriers (levees, beams, floodwalls) to stop floodwater from entering the homes in your area.
  • Seal the walls in your basement with waterproofing compounds to avoid seepage.

To learn more about what you can do to protect your home, we encourage you to visit our Information and Guidance on Building Safe

During a Flood

If a flood is likely in your area, you should:

  • Listen to the radio or television for information.
  • Be aware that flash flooding can occur. If there is any possibility of a flash flood, move immediately to higher ground. Do not wait for instructions to move.
  • Be aware of streams, drainage channels, canyons, and other areas known to flood suddenly. Flash floods can occur in these areas with or without such typical warnings as rain clouds or heavy rain.

If you must prepare to evacuate, you should do the following:

  • Secure your home. If you have time, bring in outdoor furniture. Move essential items to an upper floor.
  • Turn off utilities at the main switches or valves if instructed to do so. Disconnect electrical appliances. Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.

If you have to leave your home, remember these evacuation tips:

  • Do not walk through moving water. Six inches of moving water can make you fall. If you have to walk in water, walk where the water is not moving. Use a stick to check the firmness of the ground in front of you.
  • Do not drive into flooded areas. If floodwaters rise around your car, abandon the car and move to higher ground if you can do so safely. You and the vehicle can be quickly swept away.

Driving Flood Facts

The following are important points to remember when driving in flood conditions:

  • Six inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars causing loss of control and possible stalling.
  • A foot of water will float many vehicles.
  • Two feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles including sport utility vehicles (SUV’s) and pick-ups.

After a Flood

The following are guidelines for the period following a flood:

  • Listen for news reports to learn whether the community’s water supply is safe to drink.
  • Avoid floodwaters; water may be contaminated by oil, gasoline, or raw sewage. Water may also be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines.
  • Avoid moving water.
  • Be aware of areas where floodwaters have receded. Roads may have weakened and could collapse under the weight of a car.
  • Stay away from downed power lines, and report them to the power company.
  • Return home only when authorities indicate it is safe.
  • Stay out of any building if it is surrounded by floodwaters.
  • Use extreme caution when entering buildings; there may be hidden damage, particularly in foundations.
  • Service damaged septic tanks, cesspools, pits, and leaching systems as soon as possible. Damaged sewage systems are serious health hazards.
  • Clean and disinfect everything that got wet. Mud left from floodwater can contain sewage and chemicals.

Recovering from and coping with flood damaged property

What is a Flood?

Anywhere it rains, it can flood. A flood is a general and temporary condition where two or more acres of normally dry land or two or more properties are inundated by water or mudflow. Many conditions can result in a flood: hurricanes, broken levees, outdated or clogged drainage systems and rapid accumulation of rainfall.

Just because you haven’t experienced a flood in the past, doesn’t mean you won’t in the future. Flood risk isn’t just based on history, it’s also based on a number of factors: rainfall, river-flow and tidal-surge data, topography, flood-control measures, and changes due to building and development.

Flood-hazard maps have been created to show different degrees of risk for your community, which help determine the cost of flood insurance. The lower the degree of risk, the lower the flood insurance premium.

 

A Flood for All Seasons

Flooding can happen any time of year. Below are some of the more frequent causes.

Tropical Storms and Hurricanes

Spring Thaw

Heavy Rains

West Coast Threats

Levees & Dams

Flash Floods

New Development

Understand Defining Flood Risks >>

Understanding Flood Areas

Flooding can happen anywhere, but certain areas are especially prone to serious flooding. To help communities understand their risk, flood maps (Flood Insurance Rate Maps, FIRMs) have been created to show the locations of high-risk, moderate-to-low risk, and undetermined-risk areas. Here are the definitions for each:

High-risk areas (Special Flood Hazard Area or SFHA)
High-risk areas have at least a 1% annual chance of flooding, which equates to a 26% chance of flooding over the life of a 30-year mortgage. All homeowners in these areas with mortgages from federally regulated or insured lenders are required to buy flood insurance. They are shown on the flood maps as zones labeled with the letters A or V.

Moderate-to-low risk areas (Non-Special Flood Hazard Area or NSFHA)
In moderate-to-low risk areas, the risk of being flooded is reduced, but not completely removed. These areas are outside the 1% annual flood-risk floodplain areas, so flood insurance isn’t required, but it is recommended for all property owners and renters. They are shown on flood maps as zones labeled with the letters B, C or X (or a shaded X).

Undetermined-risk areas
No flood-hazard analysis has been conducted in these areas, but a flood risk still exists. Flood insurance rates reflect the uncertainty of the flood risk. These areas are labeled with the letter D on the flood maps.

Understanding Flood Maps >>

Protect Yourself

Since standard homeowners insurance doesn’t cover flooding, it’s important to have protection from the floods associated with hurricanes, tropical storms, heavy rains and other conditions that impact the U.S.

In 1968, Congress created the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) to help provide a means for property owners to financially protect themselves. The NFIP offers flood insurance to homeowners, renters, and business owners if their community participates in the NFIP. Participating communities agree to adopt and enforce ordinances that meet or exceed FEMA requirements to reduce the risk of flooding.

Find out more about the NFIP and how it can help you protect yourself.

Learn about The NFIP Partnership >>

What to Expect

Congress mandated federally regulated or insured lenders to require flood insurance on properties that are located in areas at high risk of flooding.

Below you’ll find the insurance requirements for your flood risk area. If you’re not sure which area your property is in, take your Risk Profile to learn more.

Residents of High-Risk Areas

Homes and buildings in high-risk flood areas with mortgages from federally regulated or insured lenders are required to have flood insurance. These areas have a 1% or greater chance of flooding in any given year, which is equivalent to a 26% chance of flooding during a 30-year mortgage.

Residents of Moderate-to-Low Risk Areas

Homes and businesses located in moderate-to-low risk areas that have mortgages from federally regulated or insured lenders are typically not required to have flood insurance. However, flood insurance is highly recommended because 25% of all flood claims occur in moderate-to-low risk flood areas.

A lender can require flood insurance, even if it is not federally required.

How NFIP is Making Communities Safer >>

Starting with Yours

The NFIP does more than make flood insurance available; it also supports local communities in their efforts to reduce the risk and consequences of serious flooding. In order to participate in the NFIP, a community must agree to adopt and enforce sound floodplain management regulations and ordinances. In exchange for these practices, FEMA makes flood insurance available to homeowners, business owners and renters in these communities.

Find out if your community is one of the 20,500 communities that implemented floodplain management measures and that participate in the NFIP. If your community doesn’t participate, you can petition your local government to participate in the NFIP.

Time to Choose Your Coverage >>

Protect Yourself with Flood Insurance

Just a few inches of water from a flood can cause tens of thousands of dollars in damage. Over the past 10 years, the average flood claim has amounted to over $33,000. Flood insurance is the best way to protect yourself from devastating financial loss.

Flood insurance is available to homeowners, renters, condo owners/renters, and commercial owners/renters. Costs vary depending on how much insurance is purchased, what it covers, and the property's flood risk.

All policy forms provide coverage for buildings and contents. However, you might want to discuss insuring personal property with your agent, since contents coverage is optional. Typically, there's a 30-day waiting period—from date of purchase—before your policy goes into effect. That means now is the best time to buy flood insurance.

Insurance for a Homeowner >>
Insurance for a Renter >>
Insurance for a Condo Owner or Renter >>

What's Covered:

Flood insurance policies cover physical damage to your property and possessions. You can use the following list as a general guide to what is and isn't covered or simply refer to the Summary of Coverage (PDF 108K) to help you better understand your policy and coverage.

Building Property

  • The insured building and its foundation
  • Electrical and plumbing systems
  • Central air conditioning equipment, furnaces, and water heaters
  • Refrigerators, cooking stoves, and built-in appliances such as dishwashers
  • Permanently installed carpeting over unfinished flooring
  • Permanently installed paneling, wallboard, bookcases, and cabinets
  • Window blinds
  • Detached garages (up to 10 percent of Building Property coverage) Detached buildings (other than garages) require a separate Building Property policy
  • Debris removal

Personal Contents Property

  • Personal belongings, such as clothing, furniture, and electronic equipment
  • Curtains
  • Portable and window air conditioners
  • Portable microwave ovens and portable dishwashers
  • Carpets that are not included in building coverage
  • Clothing washers and dryers
  • Food freezers and the food in them
  • Certain valuable items such as original artwork and furs (up to $2,500)

What's Not Covered:

  • Damage caused by moisture, mildew, or mold that could have been avoided by the property owner
  • Currency, precious metals, and valuable papers such as stock certificates
  • Property and belongings outside of an insured building such as trees, plants, wells, septic systems, walks, decks, patios, fences, seawalls, hot tubs, and swimming pools
  • Living expenses such as temporary housing
  • Financial losses caused by business interruption or loss of use of insured property
  • Most self-propelled vehicles such as cars, including their parts (see Section IV.5 in your policy)

Flood Insurance for Basements and Areas Below the Lowest Elevated Floor

Coverage is limited in basements regardless of zone or date of construction. It's also limited in areas below the lowest elevated floor, depending on the flood zone and date of construction. These areas include:

  • Basements
  • Crawlspaces under an elevated building
  • Enclosed areas beneath buildings elevated on full-story foundation walls that are sometimes referred to as "walkout basements"
  • Enclosed areas under other types of elevated buildings

Make sure to ask your agent for additional details on your basement coverage.

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Read Understanding the Basics >>

Learn your risk, and find an agent, by taking Your Risk Profile.

Flood Information 101

By now, you probably know that only flood insurance covers flood damage, but you probably don't know all of the details. Here are a few of the more frequent terms:

Insurance Agent
Flood insurance can only be purchased through an insurance agent; you cannot buy it directly from the federal government. If your local insurance agent is unfamiliar with the NFIP you can:

Coverage
As with any other type of insurance, it's important to know what your policy does and doesn't cover. For example, damage caused by a sewer backup is only covered by flood insurance if it's a direct result of flooding. The damage is not covered if the backup is caused by some other problem. For a complete summary of coverage, go to What's Covered.

Deductible
Deductibles apply separately to building and contents with different amounts to choose from. Like other insurance plans, a higher deductible will lower the premium you pay, but will also reduce your claim payment. Your mortgage lender can also set a maximum amount for your deductible.

Mandatory Requirements
Homes and businesses with mortgages from federally regulated or insured lenders in high-risk flood areas are required to have flood insurance. While flood insurance is not federally required if you live in a moderate-to-low risk flood area, it is still available and strongly recommended.

Rates
The NFIP, a federal program, offers flood insurance, which can be purchased through most leading insurance companies. Rates are set and do not differ from company to company or agent to agent. These rates depend on several factors including the date and type of construction of your home, along with your area's level of risk. All premiums include a Federal Policy Fee and ICC Premium.

30-Day Waiting Period
There is typically a 30-day waiting period—from date of purchase—before a new flood policy goes into effect. Here are the only exceptions:

  • If your lender requires flood insurance in connection with the making, increasing, extending, or renewing of your loan.
  • If an additional amount of insurance is required as a result of a map revision.
  • If flood insurance is required as a result of a lender determining that a loan that does not have flood insurance coverage should be protected by flood insurance.
  • If an additional amount of insurance is being obtained in connection with the renewal of a policy.

Payment
Payment must be made for the full year's premium, unless your agent or company provides that independently. The National Flood Insurance Program accepts check and credit card payments (i.e. American Express, VISA, MasterCard). Coverage will not be effective until full payment is received.

More Questions for Your Agent >>

Learn your risk, and find an agent, by taking Your Risk Profile.

Questions for Your Agent

There are several things you should know before talking to your insurance agent that can help determine the right flood insurance for you.

Elevation Certificates

Your insurance agent may ask you for an Elevation Certificate. This certificate verifies the elevation of the lowest floor of your house relative to the ground. It is especially important if your house/building is in a high-risk flood area.

An Elevation Certificate is only required if your building was built, or substantially improved, on or after the date of the community's initial Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM). These buildings are considered to be Post-FIRM. Be sure to ask your agent if your house/building is a Pre-FIRM or Post-FIRM building before purchasing your Elevation Certificate.

It's also beneficial to ask if your community participates in the Community Rating System (CRS), because that means local officials may already have a copy of your Elevation Certificate on file. See the CRS questions below.

Helpful Questions

To be proactive about your insurance, you should ask your insurance agent the following questions:

  • What flood zone do I live in? What is my property's flood risk?
  • Is flood insurance mandatory for my property? Will the lender require it?
  • Even if flood insurance isn't required by my lender, do I still need it?
  • Do I qualify for a Preferred Risk Policy?
  • Does my community participate in the NFIP Community Rating System (CRS)? If so, does my home qualify for a CRS rating discount?
  • What will and won't be covered against flood damage?
  • Will my flood insurance policy be backed by the federal government?
  • How much coverage should I get for my building and for my contents?
  • What options do I have to reduce my premium?
  • Are there additional expenses or agency fees I should be aware of?
  • Will my policy provide Replacement Cost Value or Actual Cash Value? And what is the difference between the two?
  • Who should I call if I have a flood claim?
  • How can I pay for my policy?
  • How will my policy be renewed?

Be sure to download this list of questions and take it with you when you visit your agent. Adobe Reader is required to download this PDF document. If you do not already have the Adobe Acrobat Reader, you can download it for free now.

Click here to find an agent near you >>
To learn your risk, and to find an agent near you, simply enter your address in the One-Step Flood Risk Profile to the left.

Protect Yourself with Flood Insurance

Just a few inches of water from a flood can cause tens of thousands of dollars in damage. Over the past 10 years, the average flood claim has amounted to over $33,000. Flood insurance is the best way to protect yourself from devastating financial loss.

Flood insurance is available to homeowners, renters, condo owners/renters, and commercial owners/renters. Costs vary depending on how much insurance is purchased, what it covers, and the property's flood risk.

All policy forms provide coverage for buildings and contents. However, you might want to discuss insuring personal property with your agent, since contents coverage is optional. Typically, there's a 30-day waiting period—from date of purchase—before your policy goes into effect. That means now is the best time to buy flood insurance.

Insurance for a Business Property Risk >>

Business Property Risk

As a business owner, you know that protecting your building and your contents is vital to its survival. Your business is either in a high-risk or moderate-to-low risk area and insurance premiums vary accordingly.

Moderate-to-Low Risk
Most commercial buildings in a moderate-to-low risk area qualify for coverage at a preferred rate. Preferred Risk Policy premiums are the lowest premiums available through the NFIP, offering building and contents coverage for one low price. You can also opt for Contents Only coverage, if you prefer. Premiums start as low as $550 per year for both Building and Contents, while Contents Only coverage starts at $145 per year. Commercial coverage gives you up to $500,000 of insurance to protect your building and up to $500,000 to protect its contents.

If you don't qualify for a Preferred Risk Policy, a standard rated policy is still available. Even though flood insurance isn't federally required, nearly 25% of all NFIP flood claims occur in moderate-to-low risk areas.

High-Risk
If you live in a high-risk area, a standard rated policy is the only option for you. It offers separate building and contents coverage.

Flood insurance premiums are calculated based on factors such as:

  • Year of building construction
  • Building occupancy
  • Number of floors
  • The location of its contents
  • Its flood risk (i.e. its flood zone)
  • The location of the lowest floor in relation to the elevation requirement on the flood map (in newer buildings only)
  • The deductible you choose and the amount of building and contents coverage

If your commercial property is in a high-risk flood area and you have a mortgage from a federally regulated or insured lender, you are required to purchase a flood insurance policy.

Find out about Policy Rates >>

Learn your risk, estimate your premium and find an agent, by taking Your Risk Profile.

Find Your Rates

Below, you'll find a sampling of policy premiums for different amounts of coverage based on the latest rates for May 2008.

If you have any additional questions or are ready to purchase flood insurance, you can contact an agent.

Moderate-to-Low Risk Areas
NONRESIDENTIAL: Preferred Risk Policy (ZONES B, C, X)
(PRE-/POST-FIRM)
A nonresidential policy, based on preferred rates, provides qualified structures in moderate-to-low risk areas with two types of coverage: Building & Contents and Contents Only.

Building & Contents

Contents Only1,4

Coverage

Annual Premium2,3

Coverage

Annual Premium2

 

Without Basement or Enclosure

With Basement or Enclosure

 

Contents Above Ground (more than one floor)

All Other Locations (basement only not eligible)

$50,000/$50,000

$550

$880

$50,000

$145

$330

$100,000/$100,000

$880

$1,513

$100,000

$220

$500

$150,000/$150,000

$1,155

$2,035

$150,000

$295

$670

$200,000/$200,000

$1,430

$2,420

$200,000

$370

$840

$250,000/$250,000

$1,650

$2,750

$250,000

$445

$1,010

$300,000/$300,000

$1,870

$3,080

$300,000

$520

$1,180

$350,000/$350,000

$2,035

$3,410

$350,000

$595

$1,350

$400,000/$400,000

$2,200

$3,685

$400,000

$670

$1,520

$450,000/$450,000

$2,365

$3,961

$450,000

$745

$1,690

$500,000/$500,000

$2,530

$4,235

$500,000

$820

$1,860

1 Add the $50.00 Probation Surcharge, if applicable.
2 Premium includes Federal Policy Fee of $13.00.
3 Premium includes ICC premium fee of $6.00. Deduct this amount if the risk is a condominium unit.
4 Contents-only policies are not available for contents located in basement only.

Note: All nonresidential buildings, including nonresidential condominium buildings, are eligible for the Preferred Risk Policy. Individual nonresidential condominium units are only eligible for Contents Only coverage. In addition, individual residential condominium unit owners in nonresidential condominium buildings are only eligible for Contents Only coverage. The deductibles apply separately to building and contents. Building deductible, $1,000. Contents deductible, $1,000.

Note: Replacement Cost Coverage is not available for the building or contents. All claims will be settled using Actual Cash Value (depreciated value). Business interruption is NOT an available coverage in the National Flood Insurance Program.

 

NONRESIDENTIAL: Standard Rated Policy (ZONES B, C, X)
(PRE-/POST-FIRM)
A nonresidential policy, based on standard rates, for moderate-to-low risk areas offers three types of coverage: Building & Contents, Building Only, and Contents Only.

Building & Contents

Building Only

Contents Only

Coverage

Annual Premium1

Coverage

Annual Premium1

Coverage

Annual Premium2

$100,000/$50,000

$1,266

$50,000

$411

$50,000

$520

$200,000/$100,000

$2,359

$100,000

$781

$100,000

$1,005

$300,000/$200,000

$3,269

$200,000

$1,389

$200,000

$1,705

$400,000/$300,000

$3,909

$300,000

$1,599

$300,000

$2,135

$500,000/$400,000

$4,547

$400,000

$1,809

$400,000

$2,565

$500,000/$500,000

$4,977

$500,000

$2,017

$500,000

$2,995

1 Includes a Federal Policy Fee of $35 and ICC Premium.
2 Includes a Federal Policy Fee of $35 only.
3 Higher deductible limits are available, up to $50,000 for Non-Residential properties.

The following criterion was used for calculating example premiums: Pre-FIRM, single family structure, no basement or enclosures, $1,000 deductible building and $1,000 deductible contents. Note: if your community participates in the CRS, your premium may be even lower.

The Community Rating System (CRS) is a voluntary incentive program that recognizes and encourages community floodplain management activities that exceed the minimum NFIP requirements. As a result, flood insurance premium rates are discounted to reflect the reduced flood risk resulting from the community actions. To learn more about CRS and to see if your community participates, go to FEMA’s CRS Web page, at http://www.fema.gov/business/nfip/crs.shtm.

Buildings that are Post-FIRM, require the use of an elevation certificate for rating. Please contact a licensed insurance agent for further information.

Note: Replacement Cost Coverage is not available for nonresidential building or contents. All claims will be settled using Actual Cash Value (depreciated cost). Business interruption is NOT an available coverage in the National Flood Insurance Program.

 

High-Risk Areas
NONRESIDENTIAL: Standard Rated Policy (A Zones)
(PRE-FIRM)
A nonresidential policy, based on standard rates, for high-risk areas offers three types of coverage: Building & Contents, Building Only, and Contents Only.

Building & Contents

Building Only

Contents Only

Coverage

Annual Premium1

Coverage

Annual Premium1

Coverage

Annual Premium2

$100,000/$50,000

$1,750

$50,000

$525

$50,000

$845

$200,000/$100,000

$3,468

$100,000

$940

$100,000

$1,655

$300,000/$200,000

$5,923

$200,000

$1,848

$200,000

$2,970

$400,000/$300,000

$8,073

$300,000

$2,988

$300,000

$3,980

$500,000/$400,000

$10,208

$400,000

$4,128

$400,000

$4,990

$500,000/$500,000

$11,218

$500,000

$5,253

$500,000

$6,000

1 Includes a Federal Policy Fee of $35 and ICC Premium.
2 Higher deductible limits are available, up to $50,000 for Non-Residential properties.

The following criterion was used for calculating example premiums: Pre-FIRM, single family structure, no basement or enclosures, $2,000 deductible building and $2,000 deductible contents. Note: if your community participates in the CRS, your premium may be even lower.

The Community Rating System (CRS) is a voluntary incentive program that recognizes and encourages community floodplain management activities that exceed the minimum NFIP requirements. As a result, flood insurance premium rates are discounted to reflect the reduced flood risk resulting from the community actions. To learn more about CRS and to see if your community participates, go to FEMA’s CRS Web page, at http://www.fema.gov/business/nfip/crs.shtm.

Buildings that are Post-FIRM, require the use of an elevation certificate for rating. Please contact a licensed insurance agent for further information.

Note: Replacement Cost Coverage is not available for nonresidential building or contents. All claims will be settled using Actual Cash Value (depreciated cost). Business interruption is NOT an available coverage in the National Flood Insurance Program.

 

NONRESIDENTIAL: Standard Rated Policy for Coastal Areas (V ZONES)
(PRE-FIRM)
A nonresidential policy, based on standard rates, for coastal high-risk areas offers three types of coverage: Building & Contents, Building Only, and Contents Only.

Building & Contents

Building Only

Contents Only

Coverage

Annual Premium1

Coverage

Annual Premium1

Coverage

Annual Premium2

$100,000/$50,000

$2,280

$50,000

$660

$50,000

$1,105

$200,000/$100,000

$4,885

$100,000

$1,210

$100,000

$2,175

$300,000/$200,000

$11,055

$200,000

$2,745

$200,000

$5,505

$400,000/$300,000

$18,415

$300,000

$5,585

$300,000

$10,025

$500,000/$400,000

$25,760

$400,000

$8,425

$400,000

$14,545

$500,000/$500,000

$30,280

$500,000

$11,250

$500,000

$19,065

1 Includes a Federal Policy Fee of $35 and ICC Premium.
2 Higher deductible limits are available, up to $50,000 for Non-Residential properties.

The following criterion was used for calculating example premiums: Pre-FIRM, single family structure, no basement or enclosures, $2,000 deductible building and $2,000 deductible contents. Note: if your community participates in the CRS, your premium may be even lower.

The Community Rating System (CRS) is a voluntary incentive program that recognizes and encourages community floodplain management activities that exceed the minimum NFIP requirements. As a result, flood insurance premium rates are discounted to reflect the reduced flood risk resulting from the community actions. To learn more about CRS and to see if your community participates, go to FEMA’s CRS Web page, at http://www.fema.gov/business/nfip/crs.shtm.

Buildings that are Post-FIRM, require the use of an elevation certificate for rating. Please contact a licensed insurance agent for further information.

Note: Replacement Cost Coverage is not available for nonresidential building or contents. All claims will be settled using Actual Cash Value (depreciated cost). Business interruption is NOT an available coverage in the National Flood Insurance Program.

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What's Covered:

Flood insurance policies cover physical damage to your property and possessions. You can use the following list as a general guide to what is and isn't covered or simply refer to the Summary of Coverage (PDF 108K) to help you better understand your policy and coverage.

Building Property

  • The insured building and its foundation
  • Electrical and plumbing systems
  • Central air conditioning equipment, furnaces, and water heaters
  • Refrigerators, cooking stoves, and built-in appliances such as dishwashers
  • Permanently installed carpeting over unfinished flooring
  • Permanently installed paneling, wallboard, bookcases, and cabinets
  • Window blinds
  • Detached garages (up to 10 percent of Building Property coverage) Detached buildings (other than garages) require a separate Building Property policy
  • Debris removal

Personal Contents Property

  • Personal belongings, such as clothing, furniture, and electronic equipment
  • Curtains
  • Portable and window air conditioners
  • Portable microwave ovens and portable dishwashers
  • Carpets that are not included in building coverage
  • Clothing washers and dryers
  • Food freezers and the food in them
  • Certain valuable items such as original artwork and furs (up to $2,500)

What's Not Covered:

  • Damage caused by moisture, mildew, or mold that could have been avoided by the property owner
  • Currency, precious metals, and valuable papers such as stock certificates
  • Property and belongings outside of an insured building such as trees, plants, wells, septic systems, walks, decks, patios, fences, seawalls, hot tubs, and swimming pools
  • Living expenses such as temporary housing
  • Financial losses caused by business interruption or loss of use of insured property
  • Most self-propelled vehicles such as cars, including their parts (see Section IV.5 in your policy)

Flood Insurance for Basements and Areas Below the Lowest Elevated Floor

Coverage is limited in basements regardless of zone or date of construction. It's also limited in areas below the lowest elevated floor, depending on the flood zone and date of construction. These areas include:

  • Basements
  • Crawlspaces under an elevated building
  • Enclosed areas beneath buildings elevated on full-story foundation walls that are sometimes referred to as "walkout basements"
  • Enclosed areas under other types of elevated buildings

Make sure to ask your agent for additional details on your basement coverage.

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Flood Information 101

By now, you probably know that only flood insurance covers flood damage, but you probably don't know all of the details. Here are a few of the more frequent terms:

Insurance Agent
Flood insurance can only be purchased through an insurance agent; you cannot buy it directly from the federal government. If your local insurance agent is unfamiliar with the NFIP you can:

Coverage
As with any other type of insurance, it's important to know what your policy does and doesn't cover. For example, damage caused by a sewer backup is only covered by flood insurance if it's a direct result of flooding. The damage is not covered if the backup is caused by some other problem. For a complete summary of coverage, go to What's Covered.

Deductible
Deductibles apply separately to building and contents with different amounts to choose from. Like other insurance plans, a higher deductible will lower the premium you pay, but will also reduce your claim payment. Your mortgage lender can also set a maximum amount for your deductible.

Mandatory Requirements
Homes and businesses with mortgages from federally regulated or insured lenders in high-risk flood areas are required to have flood insurance. While flood insurance is not federally required if you live in a moderate-to-low risk flood area, it is still available and strongly recommended.

Rates
The NFIP, a federal program, offers flood insurance, which can be purchased through most leading insurance companies. Rates are set and do not differ from company to company or agent to agent. These rates depend on several factors including the date and type of construction of your home, along with your area's level of risk. All premiums include a Federal Policy Fee and ICC Premium.

30-Day Waiting Period
There is typically a 30-day waiting period—from date of purchase—before a new flood policy goes into effect. Here are the only exceptions:

  • If your lender requires flood insurance in connection with the making, increasing, extending, or renewing of your loan.
  • If an additional amount of insurance is required as a result of a map revision.
  • If flood insurance is required as a result of a lender determining that a loan that does not have flood insurance coverage should be protected by flood insurance.
  • If an additional amount of insurance is being obtained in connection with the renewal of a policy.

Payment
Payment must be made for the full year's premium, unless your agent or company provides that independently. The National Flood Insurance Program accepts check and credit card payments (i.e. American Express, VISA, MasterCard). Coverage will not be effective until full payment is received.

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Find Out What You Need to Know

Before your insurance agent provides you with a quote, he or she may ask you for an Elevation Certificate - a certificate that verifies the elevation of your house compared to the ground - especially if your property is in a high-risk area.

It's also valuable to talk with your real estate agent about market and home conditions. By doing so, you'll be able to make better decisions for your business.

Be proactive when it comes to purchasing insurance. Ask your insurance agent the following questions:

  • What flood zone is my business in? What is my property's flood risk?
  • Is flood insurance mandatory for my property? Will the lender require it?
  • Do I qualify for a Preferred Risk Policy?
  • Does my community participate in the NFIP Community Rating System (CRS)?
  • Does my community's CRS rating mean that I qualify for a CRS rating discount?
  • What will and won't be covered in case of flood damage?
  • How will my premium costs be affected if I get Building Only, Contents Only, or Building & Contents?
  • How will my premium costs be affected if I choose a higher deductible?
  • Are there additional expenses or fees I should be aware of?
  • What is Replacement Cost Value and Actual Cash Value?
  • If I have a claim, whom do I call?
  • How will my policy be renewed?

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Emergency Preparation

Being prepared for a flood can not only help keep your family safe, it can also help minimize potential flood damage and accelerate recovery efforts.

Along with flood insurance, you can also protect yourself by safeguarding your home and possessions, developing a family emergency plan, and understanding your policy.

Learn how to deal with a flood, both before and after it happens, right now.

Prepare Yourself Before a Flood >>

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Educate Yourself

After getting flood insurance, there are several things you can do to minimize losses in your home and ensure your family’s safety.

1. Safeguard your possessions.
Create a personal “flood file” containing information about all your possessions and keep it in a secure place, such as a safe deposit box or waterproof container. This file should have:

  • A copy of your insurance policies with your agent’s contact information.
  • A room-by-room inventory of your possessions, including receipts, photos, and videos.
  • Copies of all other critical documents, including finance records or receipts of major purchases.

2. Prepare your house.

  • First make sure your sump pump is working and then install a battery-operated backup, in case of a power failure. Installing a water alarm will also let you know if water is accumulating in your basement.
  • Clear debris from gutters and downspouts.
  • Anchor any fuel tanks.
  • Raise your electrical components (switches, sockets, circuit breakers, and wiring) at least 12 inches above your home’s projected flood elevation.
  • Place the furnace, water heater, washer, and dryer on cement blocks at least 12 inches above the projected flood elevation.
  • Move furniture, valuables, and important documents to a safe place.

3. Develop a family emergency plan.

  • Create a safety kit with drinking water, canned food, first aid, blankets, a radio, and a flashlight.
  • Post emergency telephone numbers by the phone and teach your children how to dial 911.
  • Plan and practice a flood evacuation route with your family. Know safe routes from home, work, and school that are on higher ground.
  • Ask an out-of-state relative or friend to be your emergency family contact.
  • Have a plan to protect your pets.

For more information on emergency preparation, talk to your insurance agent or visit Ready.gov.

Stay Safe During a Flood >>

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Protect Yourself and Your Home

Here’s what you can do to stay safe during a flood:

  • If flooding occurs, go to higher ground and avoid areas subject to flooding.
  • Do not attempt to walk across flowing streams or drive through flooded roadways.
  • If water rises in your home before you evacuate, go to the top floor, attic, or roof.
  • Listen to a battery-operated radio for the latest storm information.
  • Turn off all utilities at the main power switch and close the main gas valve if advised to do so.
  • If you’ve come in contact with floodwaters, wash your hands with soap and disinfected water.

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The Road to Recovery

As soon as floodwater levels have dropped, it’s time to start the recovery process. Here’s what you can do to begin restoring your home.

  • If your home has suffered damage, call your insurance agent to file a claim.
  • Check for structural damage before re-entering your home to avoid being trapped in a building collapse.
  • Take photos of any floodwater in your home and save any damaged personal property.
  • Make a list of damaged or lost items and include their purchase date and value with receipts. Some damaged items may require disposal, so keep photographs of these items.
  • Keep power off until an electrician has inspected your system for safety.
  • Boil water for drinking and food preparation until authorities tell you that your water supply is safe.
  • Prevent mold by removing wet contents immediately.
  • Wear gloves and boots to clean and disinfect. Wet items should be cleaned with a pine-oil cleanser and bleach, completely dried, and monitored for several days for any fungal growth and odors.

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Dealing with the Aftermath

You'll be able to file your flood insurance claim by following these three steps:

STEP ONE:
After experiencing a flood, contact your agent or insurance company to file a claim. An adjuster should contact you within a few days of filing your claim. If you do not hear from an adjuster, you can contact your insurance agent or company again. Make sure you have the following information handy:

  • The name of your insurance company
  • Your policy number
  • A telephone and/or email address where you can be reached at all times

STEP TWO:
Separate damaged from undamaged property. Your adjuster will need evidence of the damage to your home and possessions to prepare your repair estimate.

  • Take photographs of all of the damaged property, including discarded objects, structural damage, and standing floodwater levels.
  • Make a list of damaged or lost items and include their date of purchase, value, and receipts, if possible.
  • Officials may require disposal of damaged items so, if possible, place flooded items outside of the home.

STEP THREE:
Your adjuster will provide you a Proof of Loss form—your official claim for damages. You’ll need to file this claim with your insurance company within 60 days of the flood. This document substantiates the insurance claim and is required before the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or insurance company can make payment.

You'll receive your claim payment after you and the insurer agree on the amount of damages and the insurer has your complete, accurate, and signed Proof of Loss form. If major catastrophic flooding occurs, it may take longer to process claims and make payments because of the sheer number of claims submitted.

Find out how to file your claim now [PDF 78K].

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Rebuilding Resources

  • Repairing Your Flooded Home (Source: American Red Cross)
    FEMA and the American Red Cross prepared this booklet to provide step-by-step guidance to individuals repairing a flooded property.
  • Removing Mold from Your Home
    Steps you need to take to remove the mold and tips on how to keep mold out of your home in the future.
  • Information and Guidance on Building Safer
    Learn what low-cost measures you can take to reduce your risk from natural disasters. Find building and retrofitting tips and how to build a safe room.
  • Flood and National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Information
    Learn what to do before, during and after a flood. Get answers to your questions, learn the truth about flood insurance, and find tips on filing claims.
  • Disaster Maps Know your flood risks, find free mapping products, learn how to read an insurance map, and locate current disaster maps.

Community Rebuilding Resources

Removing Mold from Your Home

Dealing with Mold and Mildew in Your Flood Damaged Home

After natural disasters such as hurricanes, tornadoes, and floods, excess moisture and standing water contribute to the growth of mold in homes and other buildings.

Be aware that mold may be present and may be a health risk for your family, if your home has water damage due to:

  • Flooding,
  • Sewage back-up,
  • Plumbing or roof leaks,
  • Damp basements or crawl space,
  • Overflows from sinks or bathtub, or
  • High humidity: steam cooking, dryer vents, humidifiers.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency website contains information on mold cleanup and remediation in homes, schools and other large commercial buildings.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website includes general background information about mold health hazards and mold safety recommendations.

Information and Guidance on Building Safer

Please note: Internet links are provided where available. Where a FEMA publication number is shown, documents may be ordered from the FEMA Publications Warehouse:

Additional Publications

This book and brochure provide guidance to homeowners to proactively protect their home from flooding.

Ensure your safety

Find out how to care for your safety after a disaster

Your first concern after a disaster is your family’s health and safety. You need to consider possible safety issues and monitor family health and well-being.

Aiding the Injured

Check for injuries. Do not attempt to move seriously injured persons unless they are in immediate danger of death or further injury. If you must move an unconscious person, first stabilize the neck and back, then call for help immediately.

  • If the victim is not breathing, carefully position the victim for artificial respiration, clear the airway, and commence mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.
  • Maintain body temperature with blankets. Be sure the victim does not become overheated.
  • Never try to feed liquids to an unconscious person.

Health

  • Be aware of exhaustion. Don’t try to do too much at once. Set priorities and pace yourself. Get enough rest.
  • Drink plenty of clean water.. Eat well.. Wear sturdy work boots and gloves.
  • Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and clean water often when working in debris.

Safety Issues

  • Be aware of new safety issues created by the disaster. Watch for washed out roads, contaminated buildings, contaminated water, gas leaks, broken glass, damaged electrical wiring, and slippery floors.
  • Inform local authorities about health and safety issues, including chemical spills, downed power lines, washed out roads, smoldering insulation, and dead animals.
  • How Do I Find My Family?
  • FEMA has established the National Emergency Family Registry and Locator System (NEFRLS), which has been developed to help reunite families who are separated during a disaster.
  • The NEFRLS system will enable displaced individuals the ability to enter personal information into a website database so that they can be located by others during a disaster.
  • The American Red Cross also maintains a database to help you find family.
  • Contact the local American Red Cross chapter where you are staying for information. Do not contact the chapter in the disaster area.

How Do I Get Food and Water?

The American Red Cross and other volunteer agencies will provide you with food, water and clothing. Listen to your radio or watch local media for the location of the nearest volunteer agency facility.

There are also sources of water in your home that you may have not thought of. For example, your hot water heater is an excellent source of water. Turn off the power that heats your tank and let it cool. When you want water, place a container underneath and open the drain valve on the bottom of the tank.

How Do I Find a Place to Stay?

For immediate housing needs, the American Red Cross and other volunteer agencies set up shelters for people who cannot return to their homes. Listen to your radio or watch local media for the location of the nearest volunteer agency facility.

For health and space reasons, pets are not permitted in public emergency shelters. Contact the emergency management office or your local animal shelter or humane society to see if there is a shelter set-up to take pets in an emergency.

For those who have longer-term housing needs, FEMA offers several types of assistance, including services and grants to help people repair their homes and find replacement housing.

To be eligible:

  1. The home must be the applicant's primary residence.
  2. The home must have been destroyed, become uninhabitable, or be inaccessible as a result of the disaster.
  3. The insurance covering the dwelling does not fully cover applicant's additional living expense and/or home repairs.

Apply for assistance
Search for information about housing rental resources

Returning Home

General Tips

Don't return to your flood-damaged home before the area is declared to be safe by local officials. Returning home can be both physically and mentally challenging. Above all, use caution.

Check for injuries. Do not attempt to move seriously injured persons unless they are in immediate danger of death or further injury. If you must move an unconscious person, first stabilize the neck and back, then call for help immediately.

  • Keep a battery-powered radio with you so you can listen for emergency updates and news reports.
  • Use a battery-powered flash light to inspect a damaged home.
    Note: The flashlight should be turned on outside before entering - the battery may produce a spark that could ignite leaking gas, if present.
  • Watch out for animals, especially poisonous snakes. Use a stick to poke through debris.
  • Be wary of wildlife and other animals
  • Use the phone only to report life-threatening emergencies.
  • Stay off the streets. If you must go out, watch for fallen objects; downed electrical wires; and weakened walls, bridges, roads, and sidewalks.

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Before You Enter Your Home

Walk carefully around the outside and check for loose power lines, gas leaks, and structural damage. If you have any doubts about safety, have your residence inspected by a qualified building inspector or structural engineer before entering.

Do not enter if:

  • You smell gas.
  • Floodwaters remain around the building.
  • Your home was damaged by fire and the authorities have not declared it safe.

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Going Inside Your Home

When you go inside your home, there are certain things you should and should not do. Enter the home carefully and check for damage. Be aware of loose boards and slippery floors. The following items are other things to check inside your home:

  • Natural gas. If you smell gas or hear a hissing or blowing sound, open a window and leave immediately. Turn off the main gas valve from the outside, if you can. Call the gas company from a neighbor’s residence. If you shut off the gas supply at the main valve, you will need a professional to turn it back on. Do not smoke or use oil, gas lanterns, candles, or torches for lighting inside a damaged home until you are sure there is no leaking gas or other flammable materials present.
  • Sparks, broken or frayed wires. Check the electrical system unless you are wet, standing in water, or unsure of your safety. If possible, turn off the electricity at the main fuse box or circuit breaker. If the situation is unsafe, leave the building and call for help. Do not turn on the lights until you are sure they’re safe to use. You may want to have an electrician inspect your wiring.
  • Roof, foundation, and chimney cracks. If it looks like the building may collapse, leave immediately.
  • Appliances. If appliances are wet, turn off the electricity at the main fuse box or circuit breaker. Then, unplug appliances and let them dry out. Have appliances checked by a professional before using them again. Also, have the electrical system checked by an electrician before turning the power back on.
  • Water and sewage systems. If pipes are damaged, turn off the main water valve. Check with local authorities before using any water; the water could be contaminated. Pump out wells and have the water tested by authorities before drinking. Do not flush toilets until you know that sewage lines are intact.
  • Food and other supplies. Throw out all food and other supplies that you suspect may have become contaminated or come in to contact with floodwater. Your basement. If your basement has flooded, pump it out gradually (about one third of the water per day) to avoid damage. The walls may collapse and the floor may buckle if the basement is pumped out while the surrounding ground is still waterlogged.
  • Open cabinets. Be alert for objects that may fall.
  • Clean up household chemical spills. Disinfect items that may have been contaminated by raw sewage, bacteria, or chemicals. Also clean salvageable items.
  • Call your insurance agent. Take pictures of damages. Keep good records of repair and cleaning costs.

File an Insurance Claim

Coping with Disaster

The emotional toll that disaster brings can sometimes be even more devastating than the financial strains of damage and loss of home, business, or personal property.

Understand Disaster Events

  • Everyone who sees or experiences a disaster is affected by it in some way.
  • It is normal to feel anxious about your own safety and that of your family and close friends.
  • Profound sadness, grief, and anger are normal reactions to an abnormal event.
  • Acknowledging your feelings helps you recover.
  • Focusing on your strengths and abilities helps you heal.
  • Accepting help from community programs and resources is healthy.
  • Everyone has different needs and different ways of coping.
  • It is common to want to strike back at people who have caused great pain.

Children and older adults are of special concern in the aftermath of disasters. Even individuals who experience a disaster “second hand” through exposure to extensive media coverage can be affected.

Contact local faith-based organizations, voluntary agencies, or professional counselors for counseling. Additionally, FEMA and state and local governments of the affected area may provide crisis counseling assistance.

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Recognize Signs of Disaster Related Stress

When adults have the following signs, they might need crisis counseling or stress management assistance:

  • Difficulty communicating thoughts.
  • Difficulty sleeping.
  • Difficulty maintaining balance in their lives.
  • Low threshold of frustration.
  • Increased use of drugs/alcohol.
  • Limited attention span.
  • Poor work performance.
  • Headaches/stomach problems.
  • Tunnel vision/muffled hearing.
  • Colds or flu-like symptoms.
  • Disorientation or confusion.
  • Difficulty concentrating.
  • Reluctance to leave home.
  • Depression, sadness.
  • Feelings of hopelessness.
  • Mood-swings and easy bouts of crying.
  • Overwhelming guilt and self-doubt.
  • Fear of crowds, strangers, or being alone.

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Easing Disaster-Related Stress

The following are ways to ease disaster-related stress:

  • Talk with someone about your feelings - anger, sorrow, and other emotions - even though it may be difficult.
  • Seek help from professional counselors who deal with post-disaster stress.
  • Do not hold yourself responsible for the disastrous event or be frustrated because you feel you cannot help directly in the rescue work.
  • Take steps to promote your own physical and emotional healing by healthy eating, rest, exercise, relaxation, and meditation.
  • Maintain a normal family and daily routine, limiting demanding responsibilities on yourself and your family.
  • Spend time with family and friends.
  • Participate in memorials.
  • Use existing support groups of family, friends, and religious institutions.
  • Ensure you are ready for future events by restocking your disaster supplies kits and updating your family disaster plan. Doing these positive actions can be comforting.

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Clean Up the Damage

Learn how to clean up after a disaster.

Floods

Rebuild Smarter and Stronger

Information and Guidance on Building Safer

Rebuilding homes or businesses after a disaster is the right time to incorporate techniques to prevent future disaster damages. The following resources provide in-depth information on the destructive forces of certain hazards and techniques for building disaster-resistant structures. Additional resources, free publications, and design guidance can be found through the Building Science Branch.

Catalog of FEMA Flood and Wind Publications, and Training Courses

This catalog contains a listing with brief descriptions of publications and courses developed by the Building Science Branch of FEMA’s Mitigation Directorate. Publications include recovery advisories (hurricane and tornado), Mitigation Assessment Team (MAT) reports (hurricanes and tornadoes), natural hazard Risk Management Series (RMS) publications, technical bulletins, and training courses. The catalog also notes how the documents can be obtained, either online for downloading or through FEMA's Publications Warehouse. Click here for the catalog.

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Mitigation

Fact Sheets

FEMA's Mitigation Directorate

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Mitigation Grant Programs

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National Flood Insurance Program

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Additional Mitigation Programs and Activities

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Environmental and Historic Preservation

Rebuild Smarter and Stronger

Information and Guidance on Building Safer

Rebuilding homes or businesses after a disaster is the right time to incorporate techniques to prevent future disaster damages. The following resources provide in-depth information on the destructive forces of certain hazards and techniques for building disaster-resistant structures. Additional resources, free publications, and design guidance can be found through the Building Science Branch.

Catalog of FEMA Flood and Wind Publications, and Training Courses

This catalog contains a listing with brief descriptions of publications and courses developed by the Building Science Branch of FEMA’s Mitigation Directorate. Publications include recovery advisories (hurricane and tornado), Mitigation Assessment Team (MAT) reports (hurricanes and tornadoes), natural hazard Risk Management Series (RMS) publications, technical bulletins, and training courses. The catalog also notes how the documents can be obtained, either online for downloading or through FEMA's Publications Warehouse. Click here for the catalog.

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Protect Your Home or Business

The FEMA How-To Series was developed by the Building Science Branch to instruct property owners and contractors about construction techniques to protect your property, home or business from disaster with short, easy-to-understand pamphlets. The pamphlets provide information on a range of hazards, including fire, flooding, earthquakes, and high winds.

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Review Mitigation Best Practices

FEMA’s Best Practices and Case Studies Portfolio is a web-based repository of stories about individuals who avoided losses and damages during hazard events thanks to sound mitigation planning and projects. The portfolio shares effective mitigation strategies and practices to increase public awareness and to compel citizens to take action and lessen the impact of disasters.

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Mitigation Assessment Team

FEMA’s Mitigation Assessment Team (MAT) assembles quickly to assess the performance of buildings and related infrastructure in the aftermath of disaster. This combination of construction, engineering, and hazard experts determine which construction techniques and materials withstood the forces of the hazard, and which did not. The MAT experts document their findings and recommend building techniques to mitigate future damages in several post-disaster MAT reports.

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Earthquake Mitigation

The National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program (NEHRP) seeks to mitigate earthquake losses in the United States through research and implementation activities in the fields of earthquake science and engineering. NEHRP is a collaborative effort of FEMA, the National Institute of Standards and Technology, the National Science Foundation, and the U.S. Geological Survey to develop effective practices for earthquake loss reduction, to improve seismic hazard identification and risk assessment methods, and to improve the understanding of earthquakes and their effects. NEHRP develops in-depth guidance documents on earthquake-resistant building and infrastructure design to prevent losses to life and property.

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Mitigating Manmade Disasters

FEMA's Risk Management Series (RMS) provides design guidance for mitigating multihazard events, including manmade disasters.  The series provides guidance on how-to reduce physical damage to structural and nonstructural components of buildings and related infrastructure, and to reduce resultant casualties during conventional bomb attacks, chemical, biological, and radiological agents; earthquakes; floods; and high winds.

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