Chilliwack and the Fraser Valley has areas that are prone to flooding. Flooding is typically unexpected and happens very rapidly. Whether it comes from a broken water pipe or from natural causes, flooding can cause significant water damage if you are not prepared. There are some simple steps you can take to protect your property before a possible flood occurs
Examine Your Drainage System
Drainage systems include gutters and floor drains which help remove excess water from your home.
The drains on your home can become easily clogged with leaves and other debris, which can redirect water onto your siding and your foundation. Over time, this prolonged exposure can cause water damage so be sure to inspect them and clean as needed.
Floor drains are another important part of your drainage system and are crucial to removing excess water in a flooded basement.
Test them once a year to ensure they are properly functioning and not clogged, by pouring a bucket of water into the drain.
Check For Leaks
Leaks and a broken water pipe are frequently the cause of household flooding. It is critical that you identify any leaks or broken pipes and get them repaired right away. If you see any dark spots on your ceilings and walls or see wet areas where they shouldn’t be, you have a leak.
If you’re handy try and patch it up to stop the immediate leak, but a professional plumber should be called in to make a permanent repair.
Inspect Your Sump Pump
Test your sump pump once or twice a year to ensure it is working properly. You don’t want to have a broken one when you need it the most. Another helpful tip is to install a backup pump that is battery operated just in case you experience a power failure too.
Protect Your Personal Items
In the event of a flooded home, valuable items should be stored as high as you can. Personal items sitting in standing water will become damaged and can be difficult to repair or replace.
These items can include valuable documents, computers, televisions, and other entertainment equipment. Also, don’t forget to store photo albums in a high location as they are difficult to replace and the memories are priceless.
Review Your Insurance Policy
Take the time to examine your existing insurance policy to see what type of coverage you have in case of a flooded basement or experience water damage. Standard home insurance typically does not cover flooding damage caused by nature, but you might be able to add a rider to your policy for additional coverage.
For businesses, there are sometimes additional coverages available for flooding and sewer backups.
Contact your insurance agent to see what type of insurance makes sense for your property.
Here is a link to check out Chilliwacks Flood Plane Map —> MAP
If you do experience a flooded basement or elsewhere in the home, be sure to extract the water immediately to protect your property against water damage. The longer there is water sitting in your home the more potential damage it can create.