Florida - Should I buy a flood vaccum

[Jonathan Baptiste]

Hi,

I am in the process of buying my first rental (house hacking)! I am new to Florida and I am buying in West Palm Beach. I not in a high risk flood zone but I know anything is possible especially with recent event showing that anything is possible (New York City looked like sea world for a few days). Does it make sense to own a flood vacuum to clear any potential floods by myself. They don't look cheap. But damages and having someone do it for me can also be costly. Interested in hearing other's thoughts

Thanks

[Patricia Steiner]

You'll be fine without one...they can be rented if needed.  A wet/dry vac is all most of us need for most 'adventures' we encounter.  Instead of planning for a disaster cleanup, prepare to mitigate that risk.  There are products like Quick Dam Flood Barrier - available at the big boxes and Amazon - to secure most of what you will encounter during our rainy/hurricane season.  Have a good tarp on hand should the roof leak or to prevent rain intrusion.  Make sure the lot grades away from the house and keep the gutters clear. And, when a storm is forecasted, act. Prepare your properties.  We had a close call with a hurricane last month and none of my clients' or my properties sustained any damage (frantically knocking on wood right now). The key is to be ready beforehand.  Hope this helps.