CITY NEWS
Responding to Flood & Drainage Issues
PEARLAND’S FLOODPLAINS You can learn more about the flood risk at your property by reviewing flood maps. Stop by the Pearland Branch of Brazoria County Library or visit the Engineering Division at 3519 Liberty Drive. Everyone who wants to look at the flood maps will be helped. The floodplain map was prepared by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). However, these are not the only areas that may flood. Some of our flood-prone areas are not shown on the flood map because they are due to local storm drainage problems. During heavy rain storms, drainage problems may cause flooded roads, local ponding, and/or overflowing ditches. Our worst and most frequent flooding occurs along Clear Creek, but other waterways also rise out of their banks and can flood homes. FLOOD INSURANCE PROTECTS YOU FINANCIALLY If your home or business is in the floodplain or an area where stormwater collects, flood insurance is recommended. Flood damage is not covered by your standard property insurance policy or your renter’s policy. Some mortgages require you to buy flood insurance, but you can buy a policy even if your lender doesn’t require it. Most insurance agents can sell you a policy. This important financial protection can pay for cleanup costs and to repair damage to your building. Be sure to ask about coverage to help replace your personal belongings or building contents. Note! There is a 30-day waiting period before coverage takes effect–don’t wait for the next storm to protect your family. Just because you haven’t had flood damage in the past doesn’t mean you will be safe the next time the water rises. Don’t make a big mistake and think that disaster assistance or federal loans will be your best solution.
AFTER A FLOOD If your home or business is damaged, you may be required to get a permit to make repairs. If repairs cost more than 50 percent of the market value of your building, FEMA Regulations require you to bring the building “into compliance” with the floodplain regulations. This could mean elevating the building on a higher foundation or other measures to satisfy the rules. If you experience major flood damage and are covered by flood insurance, in addition to the regular insurance payment, you may be eligible for up to $30,000 more (called Increased Cost of Compliance (ICC)). This money is to pay for property protection and compliance. Please remember to save all documents such as receipts and photos associated with flood damage repair which will be helpful for your flood damage claim and flood mitigation insurance. Call the City for a damage estimate and remember to apply for a permit in order to qualify for this money. Learn more at pearlandtx.gov/floodplain.
6 / Pearland in Motion / Winter/Spring 2019
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