What to do if your House is on a Flood Plain?

QUESTION

Is it possible to renovate and raise a house in order to avoid flood damage if you live in a region where it is impossible to get flood insurance?

ANSWER

Yes, it is possible to renovate and raise a house to mitigate flood damage, even if flood insurance is not available in your region. This approach is commonly referred to as floodproofing or flood mitigation.

Here are some measures that can help protect a house from flood damage:

1. Elevation: Raising the house above the flood level is one of the most effective methods. This can involve lifting the entire structure or constructing an elevated platform, such as a raised foundation or stilts. The height required will depend on the flood risk in your area. Eg. If you knew you lived near a dam that overflowed regularly it would be a smart and strategic decision to build in such a manner that your garage was on the lower level of the building and your garage got flooded, but your house remained untouched.
   

2. Flood barriers: Installing flood barriers, such as flood walls or levees, can help prevent water from entering the property. These barriers can be permanent structures or deployable systems that are put in place when flood threats arise.

3. Waterproofing: Applying waterproof coatings or sealants to the foundation walls, installing flood-resistant doors and windows, and using water-resistant materials for walls and flooring can help minimize flood damage.

4. Drainage systems: Improving the property's drainage system is crucial. This can involve installing sump pumps, French drains, or other drainage solutions to redirect water away from the building.

5. Landscaping: Modifying the landscaping around the house can help divert water away from the property. This can include grading the land to slope away from the building, creating swales or channels to channel water, and using permeable surfaces that allow water to infiltrate into the ground.

It's important to consult with professionals, such as architects, engineers, and local building authorities, when planning and implementing floodproofing measures. They can provide guidance based on your specific property, local regulations, and flood risk assessments.

Keep in mind that while floodproofing measures can reduce the risk of flood damage, they may not provide complete protection in extreme flood events. It's still important to stay informed about flood warnings and evacuation procedures in your area, even if your house has been floodproofed.