Recently, an article titled “Thinking About Installing Flood Panels? Don’t.” was published on beachtalkradionews.com. The article discusses flood panels used on residential homes and raises concerns about legality, safety, permitting, and FEMA floodplain rules. It suggests that flood panels may be unsafe, may trap water inside homes, may not be allowed by FEMA, and may lead to code violations for homeowners.
(PRUnderground) February 19th, 2026
At Rubicon Flood Control, we take pride in protecting our Florida neighbors from flood damage using proven, engineered solutions. Because this article may create confusion or concern for homeowners considering flood protection, we believe it is important to share our professional perspective and address these points using facts, engineering principles, and real industry experience.
In this post, we go over each of these concerns to give you peace of mind. Based on our experience, aluminum flood protection barriers are one of the most effective ways to protect your property and your investment.
Are flood panels allowed under FEMA rules?
The article suggests that flood panels are not allowed by FEMA. FEMA does not issue a blanket ban on flood panels or flood barriers. FEMA provides floodplain management guidelines that local governments use to create and enforce their own building rules.
FEMA’s main concern is life safety and structural safety. Flood protection systems must be designed to handle water pressure and installed correctly. According to FEMA guidance, engineered dry floodproofing systems are commonly used on certain buildings and locations when they meet design and safety requirements.
Whether a flood barrier is allowed depends on local building codes and how the system is installed, not a nationwide prohibition.
Do flood panels trap water inside homes?
The article states that flood panels can trap water inside a home. This risk exists with poorly designed or temporary solutions such as plywood or sandbags. It does not reflect how engineered flood barrier systems are designed to work. That’s why it’s so important to ensure your aluminum plank system is installed by professionals.
Professional flood barriers are built to keep most water out, but even the best systems may let small amounts of water through the panels – usually just a few drops that can be wiped away. No trusted installer will claim that a system will make your home completely dry. Flood barriers are not “set it and forget it” solutions. You should never leave barriers installed for months without checking on them, and you may still need to manage minor leaks or issues that may occur.
These systems protect against serious flooding – inches or feet of standing water, debris, and wildlife – which is what causes most of the damage to walls, cabinets, furniture, and other property. Aluminum flood barrier systems are not a guarantee of total dryness, but they can dramatically reduce losses, and in many cases prevent them entirely, when properly installed and well maintained and stored.
Also, all flood protection systems have height limits. If floodwater rises above the barrier, flooding can occur. This does not make the system unsafe. It means flood barriers should be used as part of a broader flood preparedness plan.
Do flood panels require permits?
The article suggests that companies may mislead homeowners by saying flood panels do not require permits. Permit requirements vary by town, county, and installation type.
Some flood barrier systems are removable and temporary. Others involve permanent anchors or structural attachments. Local governments decide what requires a permit, just like with hurricane shutters, generators, or fences.
Homeowners should always check with their local building department before installation. Permit requirements are a local issue, not proof that flood panels are unsafe.
Do floodplain rules require water to flow through homes?
Floodplain rules are designed to reduce damage during flooding. In some cases, unfinished lower areas of buildings are designed to allow water to pass through to reduce pressure.
Flood barriers take a different approach. They are designed to stop water from entering the structure entirely. When engineered correctly, they account for hydrostatic pressure and protect the building envelope.
Both approaches exist in floodplain management, depending on building type and location.
Are flood panels being confused with hurricane shutters?
Flood panels and hurricane shutters serve different purposes. Hurricane shutters protect against wind and flying debris. Flood panels protect against rising water and storm surge.
FEMA and insurance data show that flooding and storm surge are major causes of hurricane damage, especially in coastal Florida. Flood protection addresses a different risk than wind protection.
Using flood barriers does not replace hurricane shutters. The two systems work together.
Can flood panels lead to code violations?
The article mentions that some homes may receive code violations. Code violations usually occur when local rules are not followed or when installations are done without proper approvals.
This does not mean flood panels are unsafe. It means homeowners should work with experienced professionals and follow local requirements. The same applies to roofs, decks, and shutters.
And finally, not all flood panels are created equal
The article speaks of the flood panels as if they are the same, but there are big differences in quality and performance. Some panels are made of plastic, which can bend or fail under water pressure. Even some aluminum panels sold online are cheap, with metal fasteners that rust quickly. Homeowners installing these themselves often end up wasting money and leaving their property at risk.
Professional flood barriers, like those installed by Rubicon Flood Control, use high-grade aluminum panels with stainless steel fasteners and tight seals. These systems are engineered, tested, and professionally installed to protect against serious flooding, debris, and other hazards. Our star system BarrierX, for example, is engineered specifically for Florida climate. The difference between cheap panels and a properly engineered system can mean the difference between thousands of dollars in damage and full protection. It’s important to understand that quality, design, and installation matter just as much as the panels themselves.
Final thoughts
Flood protection is a serious issue, and homeowners deserve accurate information. High quality flood barrier systems are used worldwide and are supported by engineering, testing, and real world performance.
At Rubicon Flood Control, our goal is to help homeowners understand their options and prepare for flooding with clarity and confidence. Call us today at (239) 330-8888 or email info@rubiconflood.com, we are happy to answer any questions and advice if aluminum flood barriers are the right choice for your flood protection.
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