What to Do After a Flood

Follow these recommendations to reduce water damage after a flood. 1 Disconnect electronics As soon as it is safe to do so, disconnect all electronics/electrical equipment and move it to a dry location. 2 Address standing water Remove as much standing water as possible from inside the building. 3 Save salvageable materials Remove water-damaged materials…

Low-Cost, Last-Minute Prep for Severe Weather

If severe weather―including tornadoes, hail, or high winds―has been forecast for your area, follow these last-minute steps to help reduce damage to your home. 1. Close your garage door and all interior doors Cost: $0 Time: 10 minutes Give your roof a fighting chance. In addition to closing exterior doors and windows, closing your garage door…

What to Do When Flooding is Imminent

Follow these recommendations for reducing damage when flooding is imminent. Learn the difference between a Flood Watch and a Flood Warning. 1 Clear drains, gutters, and downspouts of debris 2 Move furniture Move furniture and electronics off the floor, particularly in basements and on first floor levels. 3 Move rugs Roll up area rugs, where…

Regional Wildfire Retrofit Guides

Reduce your wildfire risk by making your home or businesses more wildfire resistant. Wildfire risks can vary from region to region, and are highly dependent on the quality of statewide and/or local building codes, types of building styles, and topography. To address these unique risks, IBHS developed these regional guides which include risk assessment checklists and…

Protect Your Home From Hail

Follow these recommendations to reduce hail damage in hail-prone areas. 1 Ensure roof is in good condition Inspect your roof and repair any wear and tear. Learn how to prolong the life of your roof. 2 Replace the roof when necessary If it’s time to replace the roof, make an informed decision and select a…

Protect Your Home From Floods

Follow these recommendations to reduce the likelihood of flood damage to your home. 1 Know your flood zone Look up your property on your local flood map by visiting FEMA’s Flood Map Service Center or by contacting your city or county government. Note: Flooding can occur outside of high-risk flood areas on the flood map. Learn more at floodsmart.gov.…

Protect Your Home from Frozen Pipes

Follow these recommendations to help prevent frozen pipes. 1 Insulate and seal attic penetrations Insulate and seal attic penetrations such as partition walls, vents, plumbing stacks, and electric and mechanical chases. 2 Insulate pipes Insulate pipes most vulnerable to freezing by using pipe insulation. 3 Provide backup power Provide a reliable backup power source to…