Public Works



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After the Flood

  1. If you live within the regulatory floodplain, you must apply for a Floodplain Development Permit from your jurisdiction before beginning any repairs. A Floodplain Development Permit is required for work such as removal or replacement of the roof, walls, siding, wallboard, plaster, insulation, paneling, cabinets, flooring, electrical system, plumbing, and heating or air conditioning system.
  2. A building permit may also be required prior to performing repairs to your damaged structures. A building permit is required for work such as removal or replacement of the roof, walls, siding, footings, foundations, retaining walls, insulation, structural flooring, electrical system, plumbing, and heating or air conditioning systems. If you live within the unincorporated county and require repairs that only involve opening walls and replacing insulation, a Permit of Record and an inspection is offered by Community Development Services for no charge. Call the Kittitas County building department at 509-962-7506 or contact your local jurisdiction for more information.
  3. Use caution when returning home. Check for gas leaks, electrical shorts and live wires. Use flashlights instead of lanterns and candles when first checking. More information on reentering your home
  4. Check your house for structural damage. For assistance, call your jurisdiction’s Building Department. Permits are required before beginning repairs.
  5. Contact your insurance agent to report losses. Take photos of the damage and inventory all missing and damaged items. Make a mark on your house showing the high water level.
  6. If floodwater reached your electrical system, be sure to call an electrician to inspect the system before turning your electricity back on. After a flood, the Department of Labor & Industries will provide one no cost electrical inspection if the inspection is requested by an agency. Call Community Development Services at 509-962-7506 or your local Building Department to request the inspection. More information on electrical permits and inspections after a disaster.
  7. Clean and sanitize all surfaces that were touched by floodwater using a bleach water solution. Floodwater often carries contaminates like chemicals, sewage and animal waste. For more information on cleanup of floodwater, visit Cleanup Water and Bleach on the CDC website.
  8. Take caution when pumping out flooded basements. Don’t pump the water out until floodwaters on the outside have receded to protect the walls from collapsing. Pump only a few feet out each day to prevent damage.
  9. If floodwater entered your home, you must open the walls up to allow them to dry out and prevent mold growth.
  10. If your well was flooded, the well water should be checked for contaminants before using. If your water may be contaminated, disinfect water before using. For more information, call the Kittitas County Department of Public Health or visit EPA: What to do After the Flood
  11. If your septic system was flooded, you must take precaution to prevent damage to your system or residence.
    For more information visit EPA: Septic Systems