Hurricane Sandy changed how Long Island homeowners and buyers think about storm damage. If you’re buying a home that experienced flood or storm damage — or if you’re a homeowner assessing damage after a storm — here’s what to know about the inspection process.
What Inspectors Look for in Flood-History Homes
Previous flood damage leaves evidence even after repairs: staining at the base of framing, efflorescence on block foundation walls, mineral deposits on concrete floors, and fresh paint or drywall installed at a suspicious height. Your inspector knows what to look for — and will ask about flood history directly.
FEMA Flood History and Disclosure
Sellers in New York are required to disclose known material defects — including significant flood damage. But disclosure doesn’t always happen. Run the property address through FEMA’s National Flood Hazard Layer viewer to check the flood zone designation, and review the property’s flood insurance history through NFIP if the property has carried a flood policy.
After a Storm: What to Document
If you’re a current homeowner who sustained storm damage, a post-storm inspection creates a documented record of damage extent before repairs begin. This is valuable for insurance claims, FEMA assistance applications, and contractor negotiations.
The Inspection Boys inspect flood-history homes and provide post-storm damage assessment across Nassau and Suffolk County. Book at homeinspectionsli.com.
