Newly Built Homes Can Flood Just as Easily as Old Ones, If You’re Not Careful

New-construction homes are not immune to flood damage, as demonstrated by Gloria Odunsi of Abilene, TX, whose newly built home flooded twice within seven weeks of moving in. This reality is becoming apparent for homeowners in the Deep South, which has experienced significant flash flooding this summer and anticipates continued heavy rain. Jon Brooks, founder of Momentum Realty in Jacksonville, FL, stated that newly built homes do not automatically imply lower flood risk and can sometimes face increased risk if surrounding drainage infrastructure, grading, retention systems, or stormwater planning are inadequate. Franky Burciaga, managing partner of Restoration 1 in Austin, TX, noted that homeowners often assume new homes are protected against weather issues, but this is not always true. Fresh grading in new builds can settle within the first one to two years, potentially directing water towards the foundation instead of away from it. Additionally, new landscaping and drainage systems may not be designed to accommodate rapidly growing communities, and small details like flashing, sealing, and grading on new builds can be overlooked, leading to future water damage. Unlike older homes that have had time to reveal their vulnerabilities, new builds may present unforeseen issues.