How to prepare for a flood — and lower your premium

The best way to protect your property is to get a flood insurance policy because most homeowners insurance doesn't cover flood damage. Flood insurance is a guarantee you'll have financial protection for repairs after a flood.

FEMA's Community Rating System rewards cities, towns and counties that take extra steps to reduce flood risk. If you live in one of the 1,500 participating communities, you can get a flood insurance discount. If not, reach out to city or county officials and encourage them to join.  

Document your home's elevation with an elevation certificate. Comparing your home's elevation to the estimated height of floodwater can reduce your insurance costs. 

Store copies of birth certificates, passports and insurance papers in a watertight safety deposit box. 

Take photos and videos of major household items, like heaters, sofas and TVs. Keep these documents in your watertight safe or save digital copies in a safe place. 

Move utilities like your air conditioner or water heater to a higher location so they are less likely to be damaged in a flood. Try putting them in an attic, extra closet or even on an elevated platform. If they are above the base flood elevation, or the expected height of flood waters, you can get an insurance discount. 

Toss out leaves and other debris from your gutters and downspouts. This will help keep water from overflowing. 

Add an opening or vent in your ground-floor crawlspace to let floodwaters flow through. This will reduce pressure on your walls — and your insurance costs. 

Maintain a working sump pump and install a water alarm to protect your basement from damage. Filling in your basement can save you money if you live in a high-risk flood zone. Homeowners with basements in those areas may pay 20% more for flood insurance. 

Raising your house above the base flood elevation can reduce your flood insurance premium. There are discounts for each foot the house is elevated off the ground.