Hurricane season brings more than heavy winds and rain—it brings the very real risk of flooding for homeowners, renters and businesses across coastal Virginia.

Even if you’ve weathered storms before, each season is different, and preparation is key to minimizing damage and staying safe.

This season (whatever season that might be when you are reading this), don’t leave it to chance.

Use this Flood Resiliency Checklist to get storm-ready and protect what matters most.

Know Your Risk

• Check Flood Maps: Review FEMA’s flood maps and local resources to understand your property’s risk level.
• Review Insurance: Make sure you have flood insurance (standard homeowners insurance does not cover flooding). Confirm your policy is current and that you know what it covers.

Safeguard Your Home or Business

• Elevate Systems: Raise electrical panels, HVAC units and appliances above expected flood levels.
• Seal and Shield: Install flood vents, backflow preventers and water-resistant sealants around basement walls and foundations.
• Clear Gutters & Drains: Ensure water can flow away from your property. Remove debris regularly.
• Secure Outdoor Items: Bring in furniture, grills and equipment that could become dangerous debris in high water.

Protect Valuables and Records

• Move Items Up: Relocate important belongings, documents and electronics to higher levels.
• Back Up Data: Store digital copies of key documents (insurance papers, IDs, medical records) in the cloud or on a secure drive.
• Emergency Kits: Prepare a waterproof container with essential documents, cash, medications and contact information.

Have a Plan

• Evacuation Routes: Know how to leave your neighborhood safely if roads flood.
• Communication: Share your plan with family and employees and designate a meeting point.
• Stay Informed: Sign up for local emergency alerts and have a battery-powered radio handy.

Build Long-Term Resilience

• Invest in Resiliency Upgrades: From installing sump pumps to retrofitting with flood barriers, even small steps can make a big difference.
• Tap Into Resources: Fight the Flood connects you with funding opportunities, certified contractors and trusted local businesses who specialize in flood protection.
• Think Community-Wide: Resilience grows when neighbors work together. Encourage others on your street or in your business district to prepare.

Ready to get started? Explore Fight the Flood’s solutions pages to learn more about how you can build a stronger, more flood-ready future.