Flood proofing is a relatively new approach to reducing flood damage. As detailed in this report, it involves altering an existing building or its immediate area to prevent or minimize damage during a flood. Alterations may range from minor changes to the utilities, to waterproofing walls, to elevating the building above flood levels.

The potential for flood proofing to reduce flood losses is significant. Many people have flood proofed their homes or businesses, often by using common sense or self-taught approaches. In the last 10 years, Federal, State and local agencies have been researching techniques, promoting flood proofing as a viable flood protection measure, and assisting property owners in implementing projects.

Studies have shown that financing is often the greatest impediment to implementing a flood proofing project. While surveys showed that many people want to flood proof, lack of funds was listed as the most important reason why they did not. Further, flooded homeowners who received assistance from the government were more likely to flood proof and spend more money to do a more thorough job.

Statutory authority and limited resources keep the Federal programs from reaching many people. More funding assistance is needed from agencies and other levels of government.

A few local governments have financed or provided financial support for flood proofing projects. Each community's program was developed differently and is administered differently. However, all believe flood proofing is important enough to deserve local funding. The experiences of these communities can be very helpful in guiding other flood prone communities in developing their own approaches to flood proofing, and in equipping Federal and State staffs who help local governments implement flood proofing programs.

This report identifies lessons learned that can help communities interested in financing flood proofing projects. It is not a recipe for developing a model program, because each community must design its own approach based on local flood hazards, building conditions, financial needs and resources.

This report provides examples and photographs of projects financed by local governments. Appendix A summarizes local programs that have funded more than one flood proofing project. The experiences of other communities are mentioned but are not summarized in Appendix A because they have not funded any projects or they have not established an ongoing program. In those instances, the local contacts are listed at the end of Appendix A.