How to Address Basement Flood Cleanup

Your basement often stores clothes, furniture, decorations, and other family items. But surprises can happen due to heavy rain, a broken pipe, or a clogged floor drain. These issues can flood your basement, which may make you feel anxious.

It would be best if you acted quickly. You must do things in that flooded area immediately to save yourself, your family, and your property from harm and severe damage.

One important thing to do is call a trusted home flood cleanup expert. While you wait, learn some steps and tips for what to do when the basement floods.

Consider Calling Your Insurance Company After a Basement Flood

You must contact your homeowner’s insurance company. Find out what water damage and the extent of the damage your policy covers related to structural damage. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) state that most homeowners’ insurance does not cover flood damage. Flood insurance is a different policy. It usually covers basement flooding if it results from sudden, unexpected events.

You can take photos and videos of the damaged area and items. This will help with insurance claims.

What to do when the basement floods?

Safety: First and Foremost

1. First, check for a risk of electric shock. Before entering the basement, turn off the electricity at the main panel. Call a reliable electrician or your local power company for help if the panel is in the flooded basement.
2. Next, check for gas leaks. If you smell gas, do not go down to your basement. Gas leaks can be deadly. Leave the house and contact your utility company.
3. Check if the flood or standing water is contaminated. Pollutants and sewage can be in floodwater. This can harm you and your family. Please stay away from dirty floodwater and any items that touch it.
4. Inspect the safety of your flooded basement and the area above it. If you feel unsure and feel that it is safe, do not go in. Get help from a Flood Cleanup expert.
5. Always wear safety gear before entering the basement. Use a mask, goggles, boots, and thick gloves. Make sure the space has good airflow. This helps moisture dry and removes fumes while you work. Now, you can begin cleaning the flooded basement.
6. Take out and sort items that are damaged and dirty. See what can be saved. Get those items out of the basement. Dry any dampness to cut down on mold.
7. Remove the water. You can rent a wet/dry vacuum or portable sump pump to remove extra water. If the flood is destructive, call the pros who restore water damage. They have the right tools to remove all the water.
8. Keep the humidity low to stop mold, especially after a flood. Open the windows and use a dehumidifier and fans to improve airflow.
9. After the water is removed, fully dry the area and disinfect it. Be sure to wash and clean all items that were saved and got dirty from the floodwater.

Tips to Prevent Basement Floods

Preventing future basement floods involves a combination of proactive measures. Here are some steps you can take to safeguard your property and minimize flood damage:

• Determine Base Flood Elevation (BFE): Find out the BFE for your home. The BFE shows how high water might rise during floods in risky areas. Knowing this helps with managing flood zones and building choices.
• Store Valuables Above BFE: Store your essential items and documents in waterproof containers. Keep them above the BFE, ideally on a higher floor. Make copies and save them online or away from home.
• Clean Sewer Lines: Check for blockages and backups in your sewer and septic systems. They need regular care to work well.
• Clean Gutters: Clean your gutters and drains at least once a year. Clear gutters help water flow effortlessly from the roof to the downspout.
• Floodproof Basements: For basements, use waterproof products on walls. Install a sump pump to reduce damage. Also, consider adding flood vents to the foundation walls. These allow water in, which can lessen the damage.
• Check your basement’s walls for weak areas, cracks, and water damage. Ensure that windows are well installed to stop leaks.
• Hire a professional to waterproof your basement and seal any holes or cracks. This will help stop flooding.
• Get Flood Insurance: Most home insurance does not cover flood damage. Buying flood insurance for your home and belongings may be good, even if you are not in a high-risk zone. Keep a record of your items to make the insurance claims easier.
• Replace Carpeting with Tiles: Tiles resist water better than carpets. Using tile or other water-resistant materials below the BFE can reduce water damage.
• Elevate Mechanical Units and Utilities: Please raise or waterproof all mechanical units and systems. This includes furnaces, water heaters, and electrical systems. Also, waterproof other utilities. They must be at least 12 inches above the BFE. This helps protect them during floods.

Seek Help from Superior Water Damage Expert Cleanup 5-star Flood Cleanup Company.

You now know how to handle a basement flood. This includes cleaning up after a sewage backup. First, remember to use personal protective equipment during the cleanup. Suppose you’ve done all you can and still feel unsure. In that case, a licensed plumber or a restoration company can help. They can advise you on using a generator if the power is out. They can make you feel safer from a flooded basement.

Our experts can help if your basement floods.  Please don’t hesitate to call Superior Water Damage San Jacinto for water damage restoration and water damage remediation services in a flooded basement, emphasizing proper documentation. We are here 24/7 at (951) 719-7313, ready to help you and nearby areas in San Jacinto. We offer flood cleanup, fire damage restoration, and basement flood cleanup.