Flooding can damage buildings, park infrastructure, disrupt operations, and damage tenant owned homes. Flooding caused by ditches or drainage pipes plugged with old debris can cause liability issues for you as the community owner. While not every single situation can be prevented, proactive maintenance and planning can help reduce severity and mitigate risks of flooding at manufactured home communities. 

Why Flooding at Manufactured Home Communities is a Major Concern 

Liability Issues 

Flooding can create many hazards that can turn into legal disputes and insurance claims. Standing water can make sidewalks slick and increase the chances of a slip and fall accident. Electrical hazards and risks of associated injuries are a concern when a community floods. Sewage backups and mold can not only cause property damage but can also have serious health consequences. As a community owner, you could be held responsible for expenses related to these injuries. 

Community Infrastructure and Property Damage 

Flooding can damage your community’s roads, clubhouses, utility systems, landscaping, playground equipment, and other amenities. This could also cause damage to your residents’ homes, vehicles, and other property. A resident could seek compensation if they believe the flooding is due to neglected drainage system or maintenance.

Insurance and Flooding 

Your property’s elevation and flood zone are key factors in determining your flood risk.  Properties within special hazard flood zones are the most expensive to insure for flood risk.  FDIC backed lenders require all buildings and sites rental income to be covered for the peril of flood.

Common Causes of Flooding at Manufactured Home Communities

Drainage and Infrastructure Issues

Without proper maintenance, even mild rainfall can cause issues when culverts and drains are blocked.  

Storms and Heavy Rainfall 

Flooding from flash floods, hurricanes, and tropical storms can happen suddenly and is generally both unpredictable and unpreventable. Having flood coverage on your buildings and income is the best protection against such financial losses.

Beware Nearby New Construction 

When new neighborhoods or developments are added nearby, it can alter the flow of water and cause flooding in areas that have never been prone to flooding. The pavement and concrete can reduce how much water can be absorbed into the soil and increase runoff. 

Tips for Reducing Flooding Risks 

  • Regularly inspect your drainage pipes, grates, and other systems.  Replace damaged or old systems/parts.  Schedule preventative maintenance before storm season 
  • Regularly clear drainage ditches, ravines, and creeks.  Even a momentary blockage can lead to severe flood damage
  • Improve grading around the community and regrade problem areas to direct them away from homes and roads
  • Establish emergency flood protocols that include communication with residents, evacuation plans and routes, emergency access, and utility shutoffs
  • Train staff to know how to respond during flooding emergencies
  •  Conduct post-storm inspections and evaluations – address the issues that you control 

For more tips on managing your manufactured home community and reducing risks, visit our resources page here and learn more in our blog here.