December 2025 Post-Flood Resources
The City of Renton's Emergency Management, Public Works, Parks and Recreation, Executive, and Police Departments have been working together with other agencies to keep you informed and safe. They continue to check and secure areas near the Cedar River, as well as city buildings, trails, bridges, and roads. For up to date emergency information, visit our Emergency Information page.
Flood clean-up and recovery efforts are ahead and this page will be used to share resources. Below are some essential tips and links; at the bottom of this page you'll find an option to ask us questions and/or respond to our survey. In-person post-event outreach will be conducted through our Emergency Management team to hear from you about this historic flood event.
How can I help?
We know many of you want to pitch in and support your neighbors. Here’s a simple list to get started:
Check on your neighbors
Make sure they’re okay and help them sign up for ALERT Renton, the city's emergency notification system. ALERT Renton is part of a county-wide notifications ALERT King County.
In addition, sign up for flood alerts through King County at https://green2.kingcounty.gov/floodalertsystem/. This is a separate system from ALERT Renton to help keep you informed of flood conditions.
Donate or Volunteer
- Visit the King County website to find ways to give or help at https://kingcounty.gov/depts/emergency-management/volunteer.aspx
- The NW Regional Red Cross is helping people in nearby cities who were displaced or affected and welcome donations to support their efforts. Donate at https://www.redcross.org/local/washington/about-us/locations/northwest-region.html
Want to do more?
The City of Renton always needs volunteers for regular programs. Sign up here: https://www.rentonwa.gov/City-Services/Volunteer
Flood recovery information for home and property owners
Property damage caused by flooding can feel overwhelming and stressful. The information below will help you report damage to your home or property and understand the resources that may become available to help you.
- Flood recovery resources – King County, Washington website for help with mold cleanup.
- Washington State's Flood Emergency: Financial Resources and Recovery for additional resources.
- WA 211 is a useful resources in times of need.
Report damages
If you were affected by recent weather events please submit an impact survey for damages or other impacts to private property or businesses to one, or both, of the below King County surveys.
- Residential Damage (including renters): KCOEM Residential Impact Survey
- Business Damage: KCOEM Business Impact Survey
How to document and file a home damage claim
Insurance is always the first recourse in recovering financially from a disaster. Accurate documentation is essential for insurance. If our community is determined to be eligible for potential FEMA assistance, documentation will be essential as well. Follow these steps:
1. Gather Your Information: Have your home insurance policy number, insurance company contact information, and personal details ready.
2. Document the Disaster: Record the date, time, cause of damage, and a detailed description of what happened.
3. List Damaged or Missing Property: List everything that is damaged or missing. Take clear photos and videos of all damage, both inside and outside of your home.
4. Save All Receipts: Keep receipts for repairs, replacements, and any disaster-related costs. These may be reimbursed.
5. Act Quickly: Photograph and record damage before cleaning up, repairing, or discarding items.
6. Record Serial Numbers: Document serial numbers for electronics and appliances when possible.
7. Prepare for FEMA Inspections: If your area is approved for FEMA assistance, you will need to apply online or by phone. During your assessment, clearly describe all damage and impacts. Information on how to apply for FEMA assistance will be provided if Washington state receives a Presidential Disaster Declaration.
Homeowners insurance and mold
- Most standard homeowners’ insurance policies do not cover mold, fungi, rust, or rot.
- Mold is usually treated as a maintenance issue rather than sudden disaster damage.
- Check your policy or speak with your agent to confirm your coverage.
Damage Assessment Guide
When you are assessing your damage and filling out the King County survey, here are the definitions for each level of damage:
Affected
- Waterline in the crawl space or unfinished basement
- Damage to attached structures, gutters, landscaping, or downed trees that do not block access
- No damage to essential living spaces or mechanical systems
Minor Damage
- Waterline below electrical outlets on the lowest floor with essential living space
- Damage or contamination to a private well or septic system
Major Damage
- Waterline at or above electrical outlets in essential living spaces
- Waterline on the first floor, even if the basement is fully submerged
Destroyed
- Collapse of major structural components (foundation, walls, roof)
- Waterline at or above the ceiling of a living space
- Only the foundation remains
- Home is at immediate risk (landslide, mudslide, sinkhole)
Important Note
Damage may be considered major even if water stays below electrical outlets when:
- Flooding lasted a long time
- Water contained sewage, fuel, or chemicals
- Mechanical systems in the basement were damaged

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