One fast storm can overwhelm gutters, charge sewers, and put water where it never belongs: your basement. If you live in Chesterfield, you know summer downpours and prolonged rain are part of life, especially around the valley and our creek corridors. The good news is you can cut risk with a few smart moves. Below you’ll find a simple, local playbook for basements and yards, plus the exact maps and contacts you need if water threatens. Let’s dive in.
Why Chesterfield homes face storm water risk
Chesterfield includes low‑lying areas and the leveed Chesterfield Valley, and parts of the city fall within FEMA Special Flood Hazard Areas. The Monarch‑Chesterfield levee reduces river overtopping risk in the valley, but heavy local rain, sewer surcharging, and localized drainage issues can still cause flooding. Review the city’s program details on the City of Chesterfield floodplain page and confirm your address on FEMA’s Map Service Center.
- Check local context on the City of Chesterfield floodplain page: official floodplain management overview
- Look up your property’s current flood zone: FEMA Map Service Center
- Stay weather‑aware for flash flooding and severe storms: NWS St. Louis guidance
Basement prep checklist for storm season
Test your sump pump and backup power
If your home has footing or under‑slab drains, a working sump pump is your first line of defense. Test the pump and verify the check valve before storm season. Add a battery backup or a secondary pump so you have protection during power outages. Missouri DNR highlights interior drains, gravel beds, and sump systems as standard moisture control solutions.
- Practical how‑to from Missouri DNR: Basement and yard water problems
Guard against sewer backflow
During intense rain, the sanitary system can charge and push water up through floor drains. A professionally installed backwater valve on your sanitary lateral or vulnerable drains can reduce that risk. Maintain these valves so they work when needed. Never discharge sump water into the sanitary sewer, which is often prohibited and can cause backups.
Seal entry points
Walk the basement and exterior to check cracks, window wells, and service penetrations. Seal small gaps and clear debris from wells. For recurring seepage, interior perimeter drainage or exterior waterproofing may be worth discussing with a pro. Use sandbags only as a temporary, correctly placed measure when officials advise it.
Protect contents and document
Move valuables and mechanicals off the floor where possible, and store records in waterproof bins. Create a quick photo inventory of systems and belongings, and keep a copy offsite or in the cloud. This simple step speeds up any insurance claim.
Maintain floor drains, gutters, and downspouts
Keep interior drains clear so they can do their job. Outside, clean gutters in spring and fall, confirm downspouts are unobstructed, and extend discharge several feet away from the foundation. A clogged downspout can send a surprising amount of water straight toward your basement.
Review insurance now
Standard homeowners policies typically do not cover flood damage from rising surface water. If you have any meaningful risk, consider a separate NFIP policy. New policies often have a 30‑day waiting period, so do not wait for a watch or warning to act. Start with FEMA’s flood insurance overview.
- Learn the basics and how to buy: FEMA flood insurance
Yard and exterior moves that keep basements dry
Get roof water away fast
Route roof runoff away from the foundation using splash blocks, extensions, or piping to a lawful discharge point. Many local codes set minimum distances for downspout discharge, and connections to public systems are regulated. If you plan to connect to storm infrastructure, check local code and permits first.
- Example code language on discharge distances: downspout and sump discharge rules
Regrade to promote drainage
A gentle slope away from the house is a low‑cost fix that pays off. Even small regrading or a shallow swale can divert sheet flow around the home and reduce pressure on foundation walls. If grading alone is not enough, a French or area drain can move water to a compliant outlet.
- Practical tips from Missouri DNR: Basement and yard water problems
Add green infrastructure the right way
Rain gardens, barrels, or dry wells can reduce peak flows during storms. Place rain gardens a safe distance from the foundation, commonly about 10 feet or more, and use deep‑rooted native plants to improve infiltration. Done right, these features help your yard absorb water instead of sending it to your walls.
- Design guidance and benefits: EPA rain garden resources
Control erosion and secure loose items
Prune dead branches and remove compromised trees near the house before severe weather. Secure patio furniture, grills, and toys so they do not become projectiles. Good ground cover helps keep soil in place during heavy rain.
- Local severe weather safety: NWS St. Louis guidance
Short‑term measures when water is imminent
Sandbags and plastic sheeting can help redirect shallow flows for a short window if they are placed correctly. Follow local guidance on when and where sandbags are available, and how to handle used bags after a flood.
- Sandbag best practices and disposal info: USACE emergency operations
Local tools and who to call
Check your property’s flood zone
- City overview of levees, streams, and floodplain management: Chesterfield floodplain program
- Address‑level flood maps and FIRMettes: FEMA Map Service Center
Sewer backups and stormwater issues
- For sewer backups or suspected mainline surcharging, contact MSD so they can investigate and dispatch as needed. Start here: MSD Know Your Zone and resources
Alerts and sandbags
- Get fast watches and warnings from the NWS St. Louis office and your local alert system: regional alerts and safety
- During declared flood threats, cities and the county may coordinate sandbag distribution. Check city or county channels for current details and disposal instructions, and review USACE emergency operations for technique guidance.
Ready to talk through property‑specific risk and value in Chesterfield or the western suburbs? Reach out to the local team that pairs design‑forward presentation with hyperlocal know‑how. Connect with Boutique Realty for thoughtful guidance before, during, and after storm season.
FAQs
How to check Chesterfield flood risk for my address
- Use the FEMA Map Service Center and the City of Chesterfield floodplain page to confirm your zone and any requirements.
What if my basement backs up through the floor drain
- Report it to MSD immediately using their public resources, document damage, and contact your insurer since reimbursement policies vary by cause and verification.
Are sandbags worth it for a quick storm
- Yes, for shallow surface water and small breaches when placed correctly, but they are temporary and you should follow local distribution and disposal guidance.
What are the highest impact low‑cost fixes
- Keep a working sump pump with battery backup, clear gutters and extend downspouts away from the house, maintain backflow valves, improve grading, elevate valuables, and consider flood insurance if you have any risk.
Does homeowners insurance cover floodwater from outside
- Flood damage from rising surface water is typically not covered by standard policies, so review options for an NFIP policy through FEMA since new policies often have a 30‑day wait.
