Property Protection

Rather than wait for a flood to occur, you can act now to protect your property from flood damage. Even if you've never flooded before, in the life of a 30-year mortgage, there is a 26% chance of experiencing a flood if a property is located in the floodplain. Various retrofitting techniques are available to help minimize flooding such as elevating the building, constructing barriers out of fill or concrete, and floodproofing to make the building watertight. Because of West University Place's susceptibility to hurricanes and other tropical storms, measures that protect against high winds such as storm shutters or reinforced garage doors should also be considered.

There are several publications on retrofitting available at the public library in Houston that can help you decide which technique is best for you and your property. You can also download the Homeowner's Guide to Retrofitting: Six Ways to Protect Your Home from Flooding (FEMA P-312) from the FEMA online library for information on permanent retrofitting measures for your home. These additional resources are available from the FEMA website:

Protecting the drainage system is just as important as protecting your property. Harris County Flood Control District works hard to clean and maintain the city's drainage ways. Citizens should do their part in keeping inlets and drains free from debris and trash that may otherwise back up the system and drain neighboring properties. Report dumping to the Public Works Customer Service line by calling 713.662.5839.