4 Steps for Fixing a Flooded Basement

11/20/2020 (Permalink)

A basement flood will not sink you when you know what to do and who to call for help

What To Do About It?

When a homeowner finds water in their basement, it brings up a lot of questions including what to do about it. Here are four steps to help you wade through a basement flood.

1. Get the Water Out Safely
The first step to dealing with a flooded basement is to remove the water. However, make sure you can do it safely. The water could be contaminated, so if you cannot find the source, stay out of it. There is also a chance that the water has come in contact with your electrical system and could electrocute someone.
If there is a small amount of water, you can use a wet/dry vacuum or rent a pump to clean it up yourself. Large amounts of water, or water with no clear source, should be handled by a removal expert.

2. Remove Affected Objects
Remove anything that came in contact with floodwater. Do not test appliances or any electronics to see if they work, even if they appear undamaged. Remove any fabrics and other fibers. These materials hold moisture and are ideal places for mold spores to settle and grow.

3. Call Your Insurance Agent
Knowing your insurance coverage is important when it comes to flooding. Not all cases are covered. If the damage is due to a burst pipe, then the accident is likely covered under your home insurance. However, if the flooding is due to severe weather, it may not be covered. Take high-resolution photos and thoroughly document the incident to make filing a claim easier.

4. Call a Professional
It is always good to get a second opinion from a water damage specialist after a basement flood. An expert can assess the situation and help you develop a plan for dealing with the aftermath and cleanup.
A basement flood will not sink you when you know what to do and who to call for help in your hometown of Billings, MT.