Suffolk County Homeowners Gain Access to State Flood Prevention Grants and Assistance Programs in 2024-2025

Suffolk County residents facing basement flooding and water damage challenges now have access to significant financial assistance through multiple state and federal programs designed to help homeowners protect their properties from flood damage. While traditional tax incentives may be limited, these grant programs offer substantial support for flood prevention upgrades and emergency repairs.

New York State Resilient Retrofits Program: Up to $50,000 in Flood Prevention Assistance

Governor Kathy Hochul announced up to $20 million is available for eligible homeowners in flood prone areas to make proactive flood mitigation and energy-efficiency improvements to their homes as part of a new round of funding for the Resilient Retrofits Program. This expanded program builds upon the initial $10 million pilot phase launched in 2023.

Eligible homeowners earning up to 120 percent of their Area Median Income can apply for up to $50,000, half of which is available as a grant and half as a three percent low-interest loan. Program funds can be used to cover the cost of proactive improvements such as: installing flood vents, a sump pump, or backwater valve/backflow preventer; moving utilities above the flood line; adding insulation; electrifying heating systems; or installing energy efficient appliances or lighting.

Local Program Administration for Suffolk County

The program has three local program administrators – Home HeadQuarters based in Syracuse, the Center for New York City Neighborhoods based in New York City, and Community Development Corporation of Long Island based in Suffolk County. This means Suffolk County residents have dedicated local support to navigate the application process and receive personalized assistance.

Emergency Flood Damage Assistance Following 2024 Flooding

Suffolk County experienced devastating flooding in August 2024, prompting additional state and federal assistance programs. In what has been described as a 1-in-1,000-year rain event, last month’s storm dropped nearly 10 inches of precipitation in parts of Suffolk County, resulting in widespread flash flooding, swiftwater rescues of stranded residents and vehicles, and significant damage to private structures and public infrastructure, including dam failures and the washing away of a roadway.

Under the program, homeowners may be eligible for grants of up to $50,000 to fund or reimburse certain repairs that are not covered by insurance or other disaster relief programs. These grants may be used for emergency repairs necessary to make homes safe, sanitary, and habitable.

Why Professional Basement Waterproofing Matters

Given Suffolk County’s vulnerability to extreme weather events, professional basement waterproofing suffolk county services have become increasingly important for homeowners looking to protect their investments and qualify for available assistance programs. Professional waterproofing not only prevents costly damage but may also help homeowners meet eligibility requirements for various grant programs.

Diamond Masonry & Waterproofing, a family-owned business serving Long Island since 2000, has been helping Suffolk County homeowners address basement flooding issues for over two decades. Diamond Basement Waterproofing, a division of Diamond Masonry & Waterproofing, has been servicing Long Island since 2000. Over this time, we have been able to help hundreds of customers solve their basement waterproofing needs.

Additional Federal Funding Opportunities

The Flood Mitigation Assistance Program is a competitive grant program that provides funding to states, local communities, federally recognized tribes and territories. Funds can be used for projects that reduce or eliminate the risk of repetitive flood damage to buildings insured by the National Flood Insurance Program. While this is a competitive program, Suffolk County homeowners may benefit from local initiatives funded through these federal programs.

Taking Action: Steps for Suffolk County Homeowners

Homeowners interested in flood prevention upgrades should:

• Assess their property’s flood risk and waterproofing needs
• Research eligibility for the Resilient Retrofits Program through the Community Development Corporation of Long Island
• Obtain professional assessments from qualified contractors
• Document any previous flood damage for grant applications
• Consider both immediate repairs and long-term flood prevention measures

The combination of state grants, federal assistance, and professional waterproofing services provides Suffolk County homeowners with unprecedented opportunities to protect their homes from future flooding events. “We are committed to building resilient communities and ensuring more New Yorkers are protected from extreme weather before it occurs,” Governor Hochul said.

As climate change continues to bring more severe weather events to Long Island, these programs represent a crucial investment in community resilience. Homeowners should act quickly to take advantage of available funding, as program administrators are currently accepting applications and funds are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

For Suffolk County residents dealing with basement flooding issues, professional waterproofing services combined with available state and federal assistance programs offer a path toward comprehensive flood protection and financial relief during these challenging times.