FAQ: Flood Preparation, Sandbags & Property Protection

Should I install sandbags before a king tide or heavy storm?

If your property has experienced flooding previously or is located in a low-lying coastal area, placing sandbags before anticipated high water levels may help reduce water intrusion. Sandbags are most effective for redirecting limited amounts of shallow surface water and should not be relied upon to stop significant flood depths or strong water currents.

Can I hire professionals to place sandbags around my house?

Yes. Flood preparation crews can assist with obtaining, filling, transporting, and positioning sandbags around vulnerable areas of your property. Professional assistance may be particularly useful for larger properties or homeowners who cannot safely perform the physical labor themselves.

Where should sandbags be placed around a home?

Common locations include garage entrances, exterior doorways, low-lying access points, and areas where shallow runoff approaches the building. Placement should account for the direction of water flow and avoid diverting water onto neighboring properties or blocking necessary drainage.

What should Newport Beach residents do before a king tide?

Homeowners should monitor local tide and weather forecasts, inspect vulnerable property entrances, prepare appropriate flood barriers, move valuables away from low-lying areas, and ensure private drainage pathways are free of accessible debris.

Properties along Newport Harbor may require additional preparation depending on elevation, existing flood protection systems, and past flooding history.

Can SSM help prepare my house if I'm out of town?

Pre-storm property preparation can be particularly helpful for owners of vacation homes, seasonal residences, and rental properties. Subject to crew availability and property access arrangements, services may include inspecting visible vulnerable areas, placing sandbags, securing outdoor items, and documenting completed preparations.

What else can I do besides installing sandbags?

Other protective measures may include temporary flood barriers, moving valuables to higher elevations, checking sump pumps where installed, clearing private drains, securing outdoor equipment, and addressing known leaks before a storm.

For properties that experience repeated flooding, permanent improvements may be necessary. Qualified contractors can evaluate drainage modifications, flood-resistant construction methods, and other long-term solutions.

Can flooding cause mold even after the water is gone?

Yes. Moisture can remain trapped beneath flooring, behind drywall, and within insulation even after standing water has been removed. Mold may begin developing within 24 to 48 hours under favorable conditions.

SSM can provide professional moisture and mold assessments when there are concerns about hidden damage or microbial contamination.

What should I do after my house floods?

Do not enter until it is safe to do so. Avoid standing water that may contain sewage, electrical hazards, or chemical contamination. Document visible damage and arrange for qualified water damage professionals to begin appropriate extraction and drying.

Environmental testing or post-remediation verification may also be appropriate depending on the source of the water and the extent of damage.

Does homeowners insurance cover flood preparation and sandbag installation?

Coverage depends on the policy and circumstances. Standard homeowners insurance typically excludes flooding from external rising water, while separate flood insurance may provide certain types of coverage. Ask your insurer whether preventive expenses are eligible for reimbursement.

How far in advance should I schedule flood preparation services?

Whenever possible, arrange preparation several days before an anticipated storm or unusually high tide. This allows time to obtain supplies, evaluate vulnerable areas, and complete protective measures before conditions become unsafe.

Scheduling and availability may be limited during widespread severe weather events.