Each year flooding causes severe damage to many homes and businesses across the US. Just last year, NOAA’s National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI) said the US experienced a historic year of weather and climate damage.

Much of the damage last year occurred from hurricanes and related flooding. (Related post: create your hurricane management plan.)

Even if you aren’t in the direct path of a hurricane, the heavy rain can spread across a big part of the country, increasing the risk for flooding. And with storm season ranging from spring through fall, floods can occur throughout the year even when hurricanes aren’t hitting the coast.

Since floods can occur anywhere, preventative steps can help protect your business so it remains open during or re-opens quickly after a flood disaster. Flooding can happen with little to no warning, and taking steps now that are designed to prevent or reduce flood damage will help your business minimize damages should your business be in the path of rising water. Read more on how to prepare and protect your business from floods as well as our flood checklist.

Watch our video below to get tips on how you can help prepare your business to minimize flood damage.

It’s also a good idea to review your property coverage with your agent to see what kind of flood protection you have – not all packages or BOPs provide full coverage, especially in high risk areas.

This material is for informational purposes only and is not legal or business advice. Neither AmTrust Financial Services, Inc. nor any of its subsidiaries or affiliates represents or warrants that the information contained herein is appropriate or suitable for any specific business or legal purpose. Readers seeking resolution of specific questions should consult their business and/or legal advisors.