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Bundza & Rodriguez, P.A. Proven Trial Attorneys
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How to Hurricane Proof Your Basement

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Any damage to your home after a hurricane can be costly to repair. But damage to the basement might be catastrophic. Many homeowners have suffered tens of thousands of dollars of damage when their basement has flooded or suffered other damage.

Below, we highlight steps you can take to protect your basement for the 2020 Hurricane Season. As always, if you need help making an insurance claim, please contact one of our attorneys for a case review.

Ensure Windows are Sealed

Water can come in through cracks around windows, so ensure that they are properly sealed and have the sealing redone, if necessary. This can also save you money on your energy bill, so it is an excellent investment.

Caulk Interior Cracks

Check for water intrusion after a regular rainstorm. If water is coming through cracks in the walls, you should caulk them. Some cracks might be very large, in which case you should reach out to a contractor to assess the best steps to take.

Clear the Drains

A well-functioning drainage system is key. Check the drains on the floor to make sure that they are not clogged. Also think about what could get caught in the drain in the event of flooding. Loose pieces of lumber or carpeting could slide over the drain, blocking it.

Fix Gutters and Downspouts

Not all flooding is caused by storm surge. Instead, heavy downpours can also lead to water intrusion. Make sure your gutters and downspouts are cleared and working properly. They should move water away from the house, so it can’t enter the basement. Check during a regular rainstorm to make sure everything is working properly.

Put Valuables in Waterproof Containers

If water does seep through, you want to protect your valuables. This means moving items into water-proof containers so that they are not damaged during a storm.

Start with smaller items, which you can store in plastic bins. Also move the container up off the floor, if possible. Putting objects in containers is a good way to prevent your drains from clogging if water does enter the basement.

Install a Sump Pump

This pump can detect water and then pump it out through a series of pipes. Many basements are prone to flooding, even during normal rainy season to say nothing of hurricanes. Investing in a sump pump is a good way to keep your basement dry. However, this can be an expensive option if flooding is not a regular problem in your basement.

Buy Flooding Insurance

It is impossible to 100% prevent damage to a basement with some storms, particularly powerful ones. You want to be well insured if, despite your best efforts, you sustain basement damage.

Unfortunately, homeowners insurance will not cover flooding, so you will need to purchase a flood insurance policy. We encourage homeowners to do so. This way you will have peace of mind should your basement flood during a hurricane.

After Storm Damage, Contact Our Team

The Daytona Beach hurricane insurance claim lawyers at Bundza & Rodriguez, P.A. have helped many people receive compensation after a hurricane. Call us today to schedule your free consultation.

https://www.daytonalawyers.com/tips-for-communicating-with-your-insurance-adjuster/

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