How to Handle a Flood at Your Rental Property

It's one of the disasters housing providers fear most: flood damage. When sudden storms or plumbing problems strike, don't fear.

Here are some steps you can take:

1. Assess the damage. The first step is to assess the extent of the damage. This will help you determine the next steps, such as whether to evacuate the building or allow tenants to stay.

2. Contact your insurance company. If you have flood insurance, you must contact your insurance company as soon as possible. They must assess the damage and determine whether your policy covers it.

3. Evacuate tenants if necessary. If the damage is extensive, you may need to evacuate the building. This is especially important if there is a risk of further flooding or if the building is unsafe to occupy.

4. Make repairs. Once the damage has been assessed, you can begin making repairs. This may involve replacing flooring, drywall, and other damaged materials.

5. Provide temporary housing for tenants. If the flood has displaced tenants, you may need to provide them with temporary housing. This could involve finding them a hotel room or another rental property.

6. Follow up with tenants. Once the repairs are complete, you will need to follow up with tenants to make sure they are satisfied with the work. You may also need to inform them about their rights under the law.

Here are some additional tips for landlords dealing with flooding:

• Keep good records. This includes taking photos of the damage and keeping copies of all insurance documents.

• Communicate with tenants. Keep tenants informed about the situation and what is being done to repair the damage.

• Be understanding. The flooding may inconvenience tenants, so be understanding and work with them to find a solution.

Flooding can be a stressful event for both landlords and tenants. By following these steps, you can help to minimize the damage and disruption caused by a flood.