Beyond bleach: Mold a long-term problem after flooding and disasters

The article addresses the growing concern of increased severe weather events, specifically extreme rainfall and widespread flooding, due to global climate change. It highlights that even regions historically less prone to such phenomena, like the Sahara Desert and Saudi Arabia, have experienced significant flooding. The central theme revolves around innovative solutions and evolving strategies to protect homes and infrastructure from flood damage. The piece notes the emergence of a specialized industry focused on flood mitigation over the past two decades, offering advancements beyond traditional methods like sandbags. It underscores the devastating impact of even minimal floodwater ingress, emphasizing the financial and emotional toll on homeowners. Ian Gibbs MRICS, national technical manager at Sedgwick International UK and chair of the DEFRA Flood Resilience Roundtable, provides expert insights. He points out that while winter storms have always brought flood risks, the current climate necessitates preparedness for intense rainfall events throughout the year, regardless of a property's proximity to rivers or coastlines. Gibbs explains that insurers seek not just theoretical risk reduction but tangible proof of effectiveness from flood resilience measures. He discusses the shift from purely resistance measures (designed to stop water entry, such as flood doors and barriers) towards a greater acceptance of recoverability measures, which aim to minimize damage and accelerate recovery when water does enter a property. This approach reduces the need for constant intervention and maintenance. The article then details several practical and technological solutions for flood defence. Mobile flood barriers are presented as a versatile option, including lightweight, reusable fences like Boxwall, and systems like Aquafence, which famously protected Tampa General Hospital during Hurricane Milton. Other innovations include interlocking plastic crates, such as the Floodstop Barrier by Fluvial Innovations, and the WIPP (water-inflated property protector) system, a large, inflatable barrier that uses floodwater itself for deployment and can be compactly stored. For domestic use, barrier socks offer a simpler alternative to sandbags, swelling with moisture to block water entry. Beyond physical barriers, the article explores high-tech solutions. The University of Sheffield's CENTAUR system, an AI-powered sewer management tool, is highlighted for its ability to monitor drainage networks in real-time, identify spare capacity, and divert water to prevent urban flooding. While successful in trials in cities like Coimbra and Toulouse, its limitation lies in scenarios where no spare sewer capacity exists. LiDAR technology, although not directly preventing floods, is presented as a crucial mapping tool for identifying flood-vulnerable areas, offering detailed topographical scans to improve flood modelling. An automated flood barrier by Hochwasserschutz Reitthaler, which detects heavy rainfall and automatically raises to protect properties, is also mentioned. Permeable road surfaces are introduced as an urban solution to reduce water pooling. These surfaces, often made with loosely packed granite chips, allow hundreds of litres of water per square metre per minute to drain through, preventing surface water accumulation. Finally, the concept of flood resilience is discussed for highly flood-prone areas. This approach advocates for adapting homes to minimize damage rather than solely fighting water entry. Examples include raising electrical sockets, installing non-return valves, and using waterproof flooring. Gibbs emphasizes that there is no universal solution and stresses the importance of consulting qualified surveyors who follow established codes of practice to develop tailored flood resilience strategies combining resistance and recoverability measures with increased preparedness from occupants. #FloodResilience #ClimateChangeAdaptation #SmartSolutions #UrbanPlanning #WaterManagement #PropertyProtection #DisasterPreparedness #InfrastructureDevelopment

This article provides comprehensive guidance for individuals residing or working in floodplains, detailing methods to assess flood risk, secure flood insurance, and implement property protection measures. It begins by explaining that low-lying areas near creeks and rivers are designated as floodplains, inherently carrying a higher risk of flooding. Property owners and residents are encouraged to determine if their location falls within a floodplain using resources like PortlandMaps.com or by contacting the Bureau of Development Services. These resources can identify if a property is in a FEMA Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) or a 100-year floodplain, which has a 1% or greater chance of flooding annually. The article emphasizes the critical importance of flood insurance, noting that standard homeowners' insurance typically does not cover flood damage. It highlights that properties within Portland's 100-year floodplain automatically receive a 25% discount on flood insurance premiums due to the city's participation in the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Community Rating System (CRS). Portland's Class 5 rating in the CRS, placing it among the top 15 percent of participating communities, is attributed to its commitment to restoring natural floodplain functions, a comprehensive stormwater management approach, updated floodplain codes, environmental zoning, public information availability, and the designation of significant floodplain areas as parks and open space. The article advises checking for sewer backup insurance alongside flood coverage and directs readers to FloodSmart.gov for more information. Practical steps for protecting property from flood damage are outlined, including elevating belongings and mechanical systems above anticipated flood levels, removing items from basements and avoiding their use as living or workspaces, installing sewer backflow prevention, and physically elevating homes. The Bureau of Development Services staff are available for discussions on flood hazards and retrofit options. For construction activities within a floodplain, strict regulations apply to protect both the property undergoing development and adjacent properties. A permit is mandatory for building, altering, regrading, or adding fill, ensuring compliance with city, state, and federal requirements and preventing negative impacts on other properties. New residential buildings in floodplains must be constructed at least two feet above the 100-year flood level, with a one-foot minimum for properties in the Columbia River floodplain. No new construction or filling is permitted in a floodway unless a hydrologic analysis confirms it will not increase the base flood elevation, with a reference to Portland City Code for detailed regulations. The article also addresses flooding and drainage issues for properties located outside the 100-year floodplain, particularly in areas like SW Portland where hilly terrain and dense soils can lead to unmanaged stormwater runoff. Residents are advised to help maintain storm drains, green street planters, and ditches, and to report drainage problems to PBOT 24/7 Maintenance Dispatch. Environmental Services offers technical advice and property visits to discuss drainage solutions. Managing rain on one's property is also suggested as a proactive measure. Contact information for Environmental Services and for construction and development inquiries in floodplains is provided, along with links to related resources on flood safety, Johnson Creek flood gauge, landslides, and flood hazard regulations. #FloodplainPreparation #FloodInsurance #PropertyProtection #FloodplainRegulations #StormwaterManagement #CommunityRatingSystem #BuildingCodes #DisasterPreparedness

Homeowners insurance policies typically cover mold damage only if it results from a sudden, accidental event that is explicitly covered by the policy. For instance, if a washing machine suddenly leaks, leading to mold growth on the floor, the policy would likely cover the cost of mold removal and potentially floor replacement if the damage is severe. Other scenarios that may trigger coverage include water damage from a broken water heater, a burst or frozen pipe, or water damage incurred while extinguishing a fire. It is important to note that while the mold and water damage may be covered, the cost to replace the faulty appliance itself is usually not; for this, separate equipment breakdown coverage would be necessary. Conversely, homeowners insurance generally does not cover mold that is a result of neglect or poor home maintenance. This includes mold arising from issues like poorly sealed windows or doors, unrepaired leaky faucets, or inadequate ventilation in humid areas such as bathrooms. Furthermore, standard policies typically exclude mold damage caused by sump pump failures or water backups unless specific optional coverage is purchased. While some insurers offer an add-on for sump pump and water backup coverage, it typically addresses sudden events rather than gradual leaks from a home’s foundation. Flood damage is also generally excluded from standard homeowners insurance. In areas prone to flooding, a separate flood insurance policy is required, but even these policies may have limitations regarding mold coverage, often covering it only if the home is inaccessible post-flood, as seen with the National Flood Insurance Program. When mold is discovered, assessing whether to file a claim is crucial. The average cost of mold remediation is around $2,235. If the homeowner's deductible, often $2,000, is close to or exceeds the remediation cost, filing a claim might not be financially beneficial due to potential premium increases. However, if the mold infestation is significant or accompanied by other extensive damage, filing a claim could be worthwhile. Prompt action is essential: homeowners should stop the water source immediately, document all damage with photos and videos, and file the claim as soon as possible. Temporary repairs, such as removing excess water and dehumidifying the area, are recommended after documentation to prevent further damage, and receipts for all related expenses should be kept. If an insurance claim is denied, homeowners have the option to appeal. If mold damage is due to uncovered causes, homeowners are responsible for cleanup. Small mold patches might be handled personally with proper protective gear, but larger infestations warrant professional remediation from licensed and insured contractors. Preventing mold involves regular maintenance, such as inspecting pipes and faucets, ensuring proper drainage away from the home, controlling indoor humidity with air conditioners and dehumidifiers, improving ventilation in moisture-prone rooms, avoiding carpeting in damp areas, and regularly checking roofs and gutters for leaks. Replacing hoses for large appliances every five years can also mitigate risk. Mold can develop rapidly, often within 24 hours on damp surfaces, highlighting the importance of swift response to leaks and floods. #HomeownersInsurance #MoldCoverage #WaterDamage #HomeMaintenance #InsuranceClaim #FloodInsurance #MoldRemediation #PropertyDamage #HomeCare

During the peak of the U.S. housing boom in 2005, over two million new homes were constructed, a stark contrast to the half-million started in 2009. This rapid expansion, fueled by rising home prices and loose mortgage terms, led developers to prioritize speed and cost-cutting, often compromising construction quality. This frenetic pace resulted in significant issues, as an estimated 17 percent of homes built in 2005 have at least two major defects, ranging from structural failures to leaky roofs. One common problem stemming from expedited construction is leaky roofs. A watertight roof involves precise pitch to direct water away from the house and the proper installation of waterproofing materials like metal flashing and felt underlayment. Rushed contractors often neglect these critical steps, leading to poor drainage, omitted flashing over vulnerable seams, or the absence of felt backing, all of which can cause water infiltration, costly damage, and mold growth. Another frequent issue is leaky windows. Proper window installation is a multi-step process requiring specialized skills and layered sealing materials. During the boom, a shortage of qualified workers and quality materials led contractors to cut corners. This included failing to apply rubberized flashing to the sides and top (head) of windows, or using inadequate foam insulation. While the bottom of a window frame is intentionally less sealed to allow drainage, improper sealing elsewhere leads to leaks, drafts, fogging, and moisture intrusion, which can saturate wooden components, bulge walls, and foster mold. Basement flooding is also a significant problem, often attributed to contractor negligence rather than natural causes. While no foundation is completely waterproof, effective design and materials can prevent water accumulation. Rushed contractors may not properly grade the property to direct water away from the foundation, fail to install gutters and downspouts to manage rainwater, or neglect to use free-draining backfill (like gravel) around foundation walls. This backfill is crucial for directing groundwater to a subterranean drainage system, preventing hydrostatic pressure buildup and subsequent flooding. Cracked foundations represent a severe structural flaw. An example from the Blue Oaks subdivision in California highlighted how builders neglected soil testing, leading to homes cracking due to expanding and contracting clay soil. In other cases, rushed construction involves inadequate rebar reinforcement in concrete foundations or insufficient tamping of fill soil beneath footers, causing continued settling and cracking. Finally, mold outbreaks are a particularly nasty consequence of fast-paced building. Mold thrives in moist environments, and builders operating under tight deadlines sometimes use damp plywood, sealing it before it can dry, or fail to properly insulate pipes, ventilate attics, or seal HVAC ducts. This creates ideal conditions for mold growth, which can produce mycotoxins harmful to health and spread allergens throughout the house, impacting residents' well-being. #ConstructionDefects #HousingBoom #HomeMaintenance #BuildingQuality #PropertyIssues #MoldOutbreaks #FoundationProblems #WaterDamage

Los Angeles County outlines a streamlined rebuilding process for residents affected by wildfires, establishing one-stop permit centers to assist with navigation. Construction cannot commence until debris removal is complete, but residents are encouraged to apply for necessary permits as soon as they are ready. A guide titled "The Road to Rebuilding" helps residents understand the steps involved in the complex rebuilding process after a wildfire, including an animated video overview. Key rebuilding highlights include scheduling appointments at one-stop permit centers, applying for building or fire debris removal permits, learning about like-for-like rebuild options, obtaining temporary housing permits, and utilizing mapping resources. Information is also available for navigating manufactured and factory-built homes. The article addresses frequently asked questions related to fire rebuilds, covering topics such as what to expect, permitting timelines, and fees. A "like-for-like" rebuild, as defined by the Zoning Code, involves a replacement structure that is the same size, in the same location, and for the same use as the previous one. In the Palisades Fire affected area, modifications that do not increase floor area, size, height, or building footprint by more than 10% are allowed. In the Eaton Fire affected area, modifications can increase these aspects by up to 10% or 200 square feet, whichever is greater. These structures can have different internal floor plans or be smaller and do not need to comply with current Zoning Code requirements but must adhere to current Building, Fire, and Health and Safety Codes. The timeline for rebuilding is not definitive, with applications for temporary housing and like-for-like rebuilds generally required within two years of an emergency declaration. Extensions may be granted, but building permits expire if construction doesn't begin within 12 months. The duration of the permitting process varies based on project complexity, with expedited services for like-for-like rebuilds and pre-approved plans. More complex projects will still be expedited, with initial reviews within 10 business days and rechecks within 5 business days for Regional Planning. Additional agency approvals, such as a water agency "Will-Serve" letter, are usually required before a building permit can be issued. Minimum submittal requirements include one application with architectural plans and property ownership information to initiate review, with additional materials like structural and energy plans requested later. A debris removal permit is only necessary if homeowners opt out of the government-assisted program. Reusing existing foundations requires evaluation by an engineering consultant, ensuring the foundation meets current building code requirements after thorough testing and forensic analysis. Demolition permits are not required for those in the government's debris removal program if the foundation remains. The article also addresses specific code requirements, including exemptions and waivers for certain like-for-like rebuild projects in the Eaton Fire area, such as electric vehicle-ready infrastructure, cool roof requirements, graywater-ready plumbing systems, and low impact development (LID) requirements for buildings constructed before 2009. LID requirements are not waived in the Palisades area. Guidance is provided on cross-lot drainage and the process for determining previous square footage and available construction plans. Pre-approved building plans are available for homeowners, and solar panels are no longer mandatory but homes must be solar-ready. Fire sprinklers are required by current codes, and while new buildings must be electric-ready, gas appliances are still permitted. Wood-burning chimneys are now allowed for fire rebuild projects. Information on property tagging ("Yellow" or "Red" tags) provides details on access restrictions and safety concerns, with contact information for local Building and Safety District Offices and One-Stop Permit Centers. Temporary housing, including RVs, manufactured homes, or mobilehomes, is allowed with proper connections, and approvals expire two years after the emergency declaration, with possible extensions. Manufactured and factory-built homes can serve as permanent replacement structures if they meet fire-resistant construction requirements and are installed on a continuous concrete footing. Building new Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) is permitted as temporary housing while the primary dwelling is rebuilt, with expedited permitting and compliance with current codes. Utility-related questions cover septic systems, sewer connections, and undergrounding utilities. Existing septic systems can be reused if in good working order for like-for-like rebuilds, but upgrades are required if wastewater flow increases. Connection to county sewer lines is mandated if a property is within 200 linear feet of a sewer main and repair of a septic system is needed. Homeowners are responsible for the cost of lateral connections to underground utilities. The County supports the creation of community-driven sewer districts and clarifies that Public Health Department management keeps all inspectors informed of changes regarding septic, cesspool, and sewer systems. Incorporating greywater systems is encouraged for environmental benefits, though specific policies for new ADUs are still developing. Regarding swimming pools and spas, temporary fencing is required if existing barriers are damaged, and debris removal from pools is covered by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers if within the ash footprint. Draining pools to the sewer requires a permit and specific conditions, otherwise, private water haulers must be hired. The rights of new buyers are also addressed, clarifying that while temporary housing eligibility is tied to prior residency, expedited permitting is available to all within two years of the emergency declaration, regardless of property ownership changes. Lastly, contact information for one-stop locations and various rebuilding resources for different cities within Los Angeles County are provided, including links for FEMA assistance, disaster loans, tax relief, and insurance claims. #WildfireRecovery #RebuildingProcess #LAcountyPermits #TemporaryHousing #LikeForLikeRebuilds #BuildingCodes #SepticSystems #SewerConnections #DisasterAssistance

Experiencing a home flood can be a devastating event, leaving homeowners with significant damage and a complex recovery process. The initial steps after a flood involve ensuring safety and then systematically documenting the damage for insurance claims. Homeowners should immediately contact FEMA and their insurance agent to initiate the claims process. It is crucial to meticulously document all damage through videos and photos, capturing close-ups of damaged items before removal. For larger items like carpet or flooring, a sample should be cut and saved for the adjuster. Keeping detailed records of all communications with the insurance company, including dates, times, and discussion points, is also vital. When meeting with the insurance adjuster, homeowners should verify their identification and be prepared with their policy number and records of damaged belongings. Requesting an advance or partial payment if necessary is an option. All communication with the adjuster should ideally be in writing, such as email, to maintain a clear record. No repairs should commence without written approval from the adjuster. For large claims, hiring a public adjuster who works independently on the homeowner's behalf can be considered, though potential fees should be scrutinized. The adjuster will assess direct flood damage, provide a flood certification number, and offer a suggested Proof of Loss, but they do not approve or deny claims. The Proof of Loss statement should be reviewed carefully for accuracy and submitted within 60 days, or a shorter period if specified by private insurance. Homeowners can file for additional payments if repair costs exceed initial estimates and can add new damages to their claim if discovered later. It is important not to accept an initial estimate if it does not fully cover the loss. During this period, homeowners should be wary of robocalls from scammers claiming insurance lapses and contractors offering suspiciously low bids or demanding large upfront payments. Relying on reputable, licensed, and bonded contractors is essential. Re-entry into a flooded home requires extreme caution. Local authorities' advice should be followed. Entry is prohibited if damaged power or gas lines are visible, or if the house structure appears compromised. Ceilings and floors should be checked for instability before entering rooms. Any smell of natural gas or propane necessitates immediate evacuation and a call to the fire department. Power should not be turned on or off while standing in water, and flooded basements should only be entered after a qualified technician has removed the electrical meter. All floodwater should be assumed contaminated, and protective gear like waders, rubber boots, and gloves should be worn to avoid contact with debris, chemicals, and animals. Hand hygiene with soap and clean water is crucial, and mold-contaminated areas require additional protective equipment like goggles and respirators. Cleanup efforts must be conducted safely. Ventilate the area by opening all doors, windows, cabinets, and drawers, especially if the house was closed for more than 48 hours. Do not connect generators or other electrical systems unless deemed safe by an electrician. Immediate, safe actions to prevent further water ingress, such as laying a tarp, should be taken after photographing the damage. Extensive repairs should ideally wait until the adjuster's assessment. Water in basements should be removed gradually, about one-third per day, to prevent structural damage. Standing water elsewhere should be removed quickly, and fans and dehumidifiers used if electricity is safe. All unsealed or flood-exposed food must be discarded. Drywall, insulation (except closed-cell foam), carpets, and padding that came into contact with floodwater should be removed, and samples saved for the adjuster. Upholstered furniture and window coverings may need to be discarded unless professional restoration is possible. Items that cannot be adequately sanitized should be permanently discarded. Mold cleanup should follow EPA guidelines, and all surfaces should be scrubbed and disinfected without mixing cleaning products. Appliances need professional inspection before salvage, and submerged outlets or switches must be replaced by a licensed electrician. Rebuilding offers an opportunity to implement floodproofing measures. Homeowners should select contractors carefully, checking reviews, experience, and asking for multiple estimates. Recommendations from insurance agents or adjusters can be valuable. It is important to avoid settling for shoddy workmanship. All receipts for temporary repairs should be kept for reimbursement. Floodproofing strategies include building new homes or elevating existing ones at least two feet above required zoning, adding flood openings to crawl spaces, basements, or garages, using flood damage-resistant materials like closed-cell foam insulation, and selecting nonporous flooring with water-resistant sealants. Elevating appliances like AC units and water heaters can also prevent future damage. Financial assistance and tax relief may be available through FEMA programs and the IRS for those in presidentially declared disaster areas. Additionally, reviewing flood insurance coverage with a trusted agent is highly recommended to ensure adequate protection against future events. The article emphasizes community support and preparedness as critical elements in recovery and resilience. #FloodRecovery #HomeInsuranceClaim #DisasterPreparedness #FloodDamage #HomeSafety #PostFloodCleanup #HomeRebuilding #InsuranceTips #FEMAAssistance

Recent weather events, characterized by widespread flooding, have shifted focus from immediate cleanup to long-term rebuilding and renovation strategies for affected properties. With thousands of homes inundated, the need for effective flood mitigation measures is paramount. While governmental bodies are reassessing flood defenses and warning systems, there's a growing recognition that existing homes, now vulnerable due to changing climate conditions, require robust solutions. The increasing cost and potential unavailability of flood insurance highlight the urgency for homeowners to adopt preventative measures to protect their properties from recurring damage. Traditional flood defenses like raising buildings or basic door/window shutters are often insufficient against severe, prolonged flooding. This has spurred a demand for 'flood-resistant' products that can withstand submersion in contaminated water, or be easily cleaned and reused, thereby reducing renovation costs. Martin Wadsworth, MD of Discrete Heat, points out that advancements include waterproof plasterboards, paints, and water-resistant floor coverings. He emphasizes the need to re-evaluate permanently fixed elements in a home, suggesting the adoption of flood-resistant alternatives. One such innovation is ThermaSkirt, an aluminum alternative to conventional timber and MDF skirting boards. This product is inherently impervious to water damage, eliminating concerns about rust or warping. Made from rust-resistant aluminum and epoxy powder-coated, ThermaSkirt can endure submersion without requiring repainting. Beyond its flood-resistant properties, ThermaSkirt uniquely integrates central heating pipes, effectively functioning as a 'skirting board radiator.' This design eliminates the need for conventional steel radiators, which are prone to rusting and trapping floodwater in their grilles and fins, thereby simplifying cleanup efforts and maximizing usable wall space under normal conditions. The integrated heating system of ThermaSkirt distributes warmth uniformly around the room at a low level, contributing to a more comfortable and energy-efficient environment. Furthermore, this consistent heating can accelerate the drying process in flood-affected properties, helping to mitigate dampness and musty odors. Should underlying plasterboards need replacement, ThermaSkirt is designed for easy removal from its wall-mounting brackets and subsequent refitting, thanks to its push-fit connections, making the process straightforward and not overly time-consuming. ThermaSkirt is available in various profiles, including Lambs Tongue, Torus, Pencil Round, and Ogee, and comes in lengths up to 6 meters. Its aesthetic is designed to be indistinguishable from traditional skirting boards once installed. An enhanced version, the EasyClean profile, developed in collaboration with the NHS, incorporates seals to the wall and floor for superior resilience and water resistance. Installation typically takes only a few hours, often utilizing existing radiator pipework, making ThermaSkirt an ideal retrofit solution for properties in need of new skirting boards or those proactively preparing for future flood events. #FloodResistantDesign #HomeHeating #SkirtingBoardRadiator #SustainableBuilding #RenovationSolutions #ClimateResilience #ProductInnovation