What assistance does one get when their house floods?

[Frank]

Some folks in town have mobile homes in a flood plane. Supposedly they city didn't warn them and issued permits though. Also they didn't have insurance and nothing is or can be done about draining the water any time soon.

They are bitchin that the mayor, city, whatever isn't doing anything to help them. Do the cities ever have anything with such recovery? I have to wonder if they really have a point or just the kind of people who expect everyone else to support their poor decisions.

[GhostTX]

That's why you're supposed to look at the 100 year flood plain when you buy a house and make the decision to buy flood insurance or not.

I think the only recourse is if the area is considered a disaster area and then get federal assistance.

[no4njnk]

Yup you have to check the flood maps. Where I grew up that tropical storm hit Houston and flooded many houses. A lot of the people had flood insurance but insurance would not pay since they were not in a flood plain, they were in a high water plain. All about the details if they did pay for insurance. If not they are SOL from getting major help from insurance.

[GrayStangGT]

maybe this picture belongs over here too...

[BP]

http://www.disasterassistance.gov/

There are dozens of government programs to help if they qualify.

[juiceweezl]

maybe this picture belongs over here too...

QFT. Why do those of us that work hard, make good decisions, pay a ton in taxes already, and pay insurance premiums with no claims have to continue supporting those who do none of that? It sucks, but learn from the mistake.

[ceyko]

https://msc.fema.gov/portal

I never knew anything about flood zones and such either until I met my wife. In the Houston area, they released water from a dam (exactly as is happening around here and as it was designed) in the 90s (I think) and flooded their home. FEMA then would not allow it to be rebuilt and I think sold. As of now it's just a slab of concrete on some property.

With that said, I believe they told me that they had flood insurance but ultimately it came from FEMA. I think they lost a good bit of money since they did not receive anywhere near what their personal property and/or real estate values were.

Also, I do not think city/local government is obligated to inform you that you're setting up in a flood zone.

I did note that when I looked up those maps for my place they seemed pretty old. If one thing is changed in your area, it could technically cause a flood that would not otherwise happen. Still, it's good to check out the maps prior to doing so. To me they are not the easiest to read really, but you get the idea.

[BP]

Also, I do not think city/local government is obligated to inform you that you're setting up in a flood zone.

Most counties require you to have a special permit before doing any construction in a flood plain.

[ceyko]

Most counties require you to have a special permit before doing any construction in a flood plain.

*nod* page 23 makes that clear....

http://www.twdb.texas.gov/flood/resources/doc/2008_Texas_Quick_Guide.pdf

I think a city should want to assist, even if by help put them in touch with local churches/groups that want to help. Not necessarily from taxpayer's money though. Help thy neighbor type thing.

One thing my wife remembers is those with insurance, got little to no help. Those without had a separate line and got a ton of handouts.

[Frank]

Yeah, these people are complaining that only one place assisted them with food, clothes, and hotel for a short time, but think that the mayor or city should take care of them bullshit.

[ceyko]

Yeah, these people are complaining that only one place assisted them with food, clothes, and hotel for a short time, but think that the mayor or city should take care of them bullshit.

I feel for them, that's for sure but they have to figure something out and not rely on others.

[racrguy]

Here's a row boat. Call it a trailer home. Go fuck your sister. Get the fuck out of here.

[FastFox]

Flood Areas

Pay attention and don't live in those areas. Yes, everybody wants a quaint little brook or creek on their place, but these become torrents in a wet time.