Challenge
Navigating flood damage can be an emotionally taxing experience. While flood insurance represents a fundamental layer of protection, it's essential to recognize that it may only cover some of your losses comprehensively. It’s imperative to acquaint yourself with alternative resources designed to mitigate losses resulting from uncovered damages. These resources are equally essential in fortifying your significant investments against the potential impact of natural hazards, fostering resilience, and minimizing vulnerabilities. Al Dintino, a North Carolina homeowner, experienced Hurricane Florence in 2018. During the hurricane, his home sustained damage to its foundation, subfloor, and insulation due to flooding.
Solution
Understanding the potential effects of natural hazards is crucial for bolstering resilience. Recognizing where you live regarding flood risk and other natural hazards is essential for personal safety, property protection, and community resilience. It empowers you to make informed decisions, prepare for emergencies, and contribute to your area’s safety and sustainability. FEMA resources can help minimize damages not covered by flood insurance and support the construction of a sturdier home that complies with building codes.
To start this process, research the common natural hazards typical for your area and assess their potential impact on your home's specific vulnerability zones. Check if the building components, such as heat pumps and air conditioners, are above possible flood levels. Confirm if you are in a flood hazard area as identified on your community’s flood insurance rate map. Following that, assess your flood risk and research flood insurance policies. Regular homeowners’ insurance does not cover flood damage.
After Hurricane Florence, Dintino took precautions in the event of another hurricane. Upon receiving FEMA funding, he turned to their resources for guidance and recommendations on constructing a home, raising the house high enough to avoid flood issues in the future. By elevating their home and ensuring that it complies with current building codes, Dintino’s house is even more resilient and can better safeguard his family in hazardous weather.
FEMA resources, such as FEMA Individual Assistance Grants or Small Business Administration Disaster Loans, provide additional assistance when filing a claim. If you meet the criteria and the insurance estimate is below the threshold, you have the option to utilize these resources. In doing so, you can better prepare your home and family against the threat of natural disasters.
Key Takeaways
FEMA resources will not only provide helpful and insightful information in terms of understanding your risk, but they will also give you the tools and steps necessary to repair your home in the event of a natural disaster and help mitigate future flood risk. FEMA resources like FEMA Individual Assistance Grants or Small Business Administration Disaster Loans provide additional assistance for those affected by natural hazards.