Tropical Storm Rachel's rain: what it means for your home

The remnants of Tropical Storm Rachel moved through the Las Vegas valley early Sunday, Oct. 11, bringing a Flash Flood Warning, flooded streets, and closed lanes on I-15. Whether you own, are buying, or are about to sell, it is a good reminder to check a few things about your home.

How much rain fell

More than an inch of rain fell early Sunday morning on the west side of the valley, and about half an inch on the east side. According to the National Weather Service in Las Vegas, the city received more than 1 inch, breaking the previous record for Oct. 11 of 0.78 inches, set in 2012.

Floodwater was reported near Koval and Winnick, behind The LINQ, and near the Rio, and the Regional Transportation Commission closed all lanes of I-15.

Check your home's flood zone

The Clark County Regional Flood Control District publishes an interactive flood map, called FloodView, on its website, and FEMA's Flood Map Service Center shows the official flood maps for any address. It takes a few minutes and tells you whether your home sits in a mapped high-risk area.

Keep in mind that a low-risk zone is not a no-risk zone. The Flood Control District notes that between 20 and 25 percent of flood insurance claims come from outside the high-risk areas.

Your homeowners policy probably doesn't cover flooding

Standard homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage. Flood coverage is a separate policy, and the Flood Control District says you can buy one no matter where you live in a participating community. Coverage for a single-family home goes up to $250,000 for the building and $100,000 for contents.

Timing matters. FEMA says a new flood policy typically has a 30-day waiting period before it takes effect, so it is worth deciding before the next storm, not during it. Ask your insurance agent what it would cost for your address.

If you're buying

Look up the flood zone of any home you are serious about before you write an offer, and ask your lender whether flood insurance will be required. During inspection, ask your inspector to look closely at drainage, grading, the roof, and any signs of past water inside.

If you are already in escrow, a storm like this is a reason to walk the property again. Look for water stains, standing water in the yard, or new cracks, and raise anything you find before your inspection period ends.

If you're selling

Nevada's seller disclosure form requires sellers to disclose known conditions that materially affect the value or use of the home in an adverse way. If water got in during the storm, fix it properly, keep the invoices and photos, and talk to your agent about how to disclose it.

If nothing happened, that is worth knowing too. Walk the yard and check the ceilings now, while the storm is fresh, so there are no surprises when a buyer's inspector does.

If you want help looking up a home's flood zone or thinking through what Rachel means for a purchase or sale, I'm happy to walk through it with you.

Sources

Questions about your home after the storm?

Scott replies personally, usually the same day.