The 2016 Flood: Has Baton Rouge Done Enough to Prevent It From Happening Again? with Chase Muller
Confronting Flood Risks in Louisiana: Insights from The Coastline Podcast Episode 2
The Coastline Podcast welcomes Chase Muller, an experienced Realtor, investor, and homeowner, with firsthand knowledge of navigating property challenges in flood-prone areas. Hosted by Jackson Logan, this episode explores the lasting impact of the 2016 flood, flood insurance complexities, and the need for improved flood mitigation strategies in Louisiana.
Navigating Flood Challenges in Real Estate
With over 20 years of experience in real estate, Chase Muller reflects on the challenges communities face during and after the 2016 flood. "It is wild," Chase says. "We thought it was just a rain event at first. Then you realize it's not stopping, and the next thing you know, you're watching water creep up the road."
As both a homeowner, real estate professional, and real estate investor, Chase experiences the immediate and long-term effects of the disaster. "The hardest part is seeing so many friends and family members displaced," he says. "People are trapped in their homes, waiting for rescue. It happens fast, and no one is prepared for it."
The Aftermath: Resilience and Recovery
Despite the devastation, Chase sees the resilience of Baton Rouge and local communities. "It is a time when people really rally together," he explains. "Banks and investors work with residents to help rebuild, and the community refuses to let bureaucracy slow progress."
Chase emphasizes that while many homes are rebuilt stronger, flood insurance challenges persist. "Flood insurance costs are now a major factor for homebuyers," Chase explains. "You might find the perfect home, but if the insurance is $6,000 a year, that’s $500 a month just in flood coverage." He notes that these rising costs limit affordable housing options in flood-affected regions.
Building Regulations and the Future of Development
Chase highlights changes in building regulations that impact development in areas like Denham Springs, stresses the importance of proactive flood management strategies, "New construction now requires homes to be built several feet above base flood elevation," he says. "That’s driving up costs and making some developments less feasible."
"We need to see more drainage improvements and infrastructure updates. We can’t just keep building higher — we need real solutions to improve water flow and reduce flood risk."
Strengthening Community Resilience
They also explore strategies that communities can implement to improve their flood mitigation strategies, including the Community Rating System (CRS). The CRS Program is under FEMA's National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) as a voluntary incentive program that awards communities for implementing flood mitigation activities. "Improving CRS scores can lower flood insurance rates and reduce property damage risks," Jackson explains. "Communities that invest in proactive measures can create lasting benefits for residents and businesses."
East Baton Rouge is a current participant in the CRS Program at a level 6, offering a 20% discount on flood insurance premiums.
Supporting Louisiana's Future
This episode underscores the importance of collaboration, education, and proactive flood management in strengthening Louisiana's communities. Podcasts like The Coastline Podcast provide a valuable platform for individuals like Chase Muller to share insights that drive awareness and encourage informed decisions.
For organizations seeking strategies to improve flood resilience, enhance infrastructure, and reduce insurance costs, Timbalier Resources offers customized solutions designed to deliver lasting impact. Contact Timbalier Resources today to learn more about their integrated services and innovative approaches.