Reinforcing your home against potential problems is one of your top goals as a homeowner. As spring rolls in, there’s an increased chance of inclement weather. Among these risks is the issue of flood damage—especially within your home’s basement.
How Floods Can Affect Homes 
A flood can sometimes strike without warning in the form of flash floods. Water can cause widespread and potent damages. Water damage may tarnish woodwork, ruin furniture, and cause mold and mildew growth.
One area of your home that is particularly susceptible to flood damage is your basement. The basement is usually partially or wholly below ground. It is usually relatively easy for water to permeate or penetrate the space.
Flood Insurance and Basement Coverage
If your basement receives flood damage, you may wonder how home insurance covers repairs. There are several factors to keep in mind.
- The standard home insurance policy usually doesn’t cover flood damages. Some types of man-made damage, like from burst pipes, might have homeowners coverage. Weather-related flooding, however, usually doesn't have coverage. Check with your insurance agent to see how your policy covers water damages.
- Most people who live in areas that are prone to flooding have to purchase flood insurance. This is a separate policy that specifically covers flood risks.
- Basements may not have coverage under flood insurance or the standard home policy. The special status of basements leads many insurers to leave coverage off policies.
In any case, be sure to talk to your insurance agent to discuss your specific coverage capabilities.
Tips to Prevent Basement Floods
There are ways to better protect your basement from potential floods. By inspecting your property in the spring, you can get ahead of many problems that may occur later.
- Ensure that there are no cracks in the foundations or supports of the basement. This will prevent water from seeping into the interior.
- Check that you re-apply any sealants or repair any seals meant to keep water out of the basement.
- Understand the basement’s construction. Learn if any tanks or pipelines run below the floors or in the ceilings above. Make sure these appliances don’t leak.
- Check your home’s roof, gutters and downspouts. Repair and keep these parts of the home clean. Damage to these structures could block water from running off the house properly. The water could seep onto the foundation and into the basement.
For more information, consult your insurance agent.