Retrofitting existing buildings or regrading a yard can help reduce the potential for flood damage to structures and their contents. This can include:
Elevating buildings above flood levels.
Wet or dry flood proofing (commercial structures only).
Installing backflow preventers to protect floors and contents from sewer backups.
A building permit may be required for retrofitting and structural projects.
Temporary Measures
There are temporary measures that can help to protect your property during a flood event, such as:
Planning ahead about where and how you will move furniture out of harm’s way.
Keeping materials like sandbags, plywood, plastic sheeting and lumber handy for emergency waterproofing.
Clearing brush and debris away from storm drains and ditches so water can drain away from the structure.
Substantial Improvements
Homeowners who are planning substantial improvements to their structure should contact the Prince George’s County Department of Permitting, Inspections and Enforcement (DPIE) for a residential building permit. Elevating or flood proofing may be required if you plan to substantially improve your existing structure (the cost of the improvement or add-on is up to 50% of the value of the existing structure).
If your property is substantially damaged by a flood (50% of the value of the building), Federal regulations may require you to elevate or flood proof before you can rebuild. The document titled “Answers to Questions about Substantially Damaged Buildings” (FEMA-213, May 1991) will help answer questions on this topic and can be obtained free online or by calling 800-480-2520.
For additional questions about substantial improvements, or for information on permitting, please contact Paul DeSousa at 301-883-5871.
Additional Resources
“Residential Drainage: A Homeowner’s Guide to Drainage Problems and Solutions” available from Prince George’s County. This free guide can be obtained by calling Moses Fadiran at 301-883-5768.
“Homeowner’s Guide to Retrofitting: Six Ways to Protect Your House from Flooding” (FEMA Publication #312), includes information on protecting a structure from flooding and information about available financial assistance. You can get this free guide by calling 800-480-2520 or online.
For additional questions about these types of projects, or for information on permitting, contact the Prince George’s County Department of the Environment at 301-883-5776.