If your basement is flooded with water, it is very important to take prompt actions to ensure as little damage as possible. You must always keep in mind that though cleaning up the flooded basement can seem like a DIY task, there are always risks associated with it.
Therefore, professional help is always the safest and most effective solution. However, if you are unable to locate a professional team for flooded basement cleanup, here’s what you can do till the professional help arrives.
1. Safety First
Before attempting any flooded basement cleanup, prioritize safety:
- Turn off the electricity to the basement. If you can’t reach the fuse box safely, call an electrician or your power company immediately.
- If there’s a chance of sewage contamination, evacuate the area. Sewage water carries dangerous bacteria and requires professional handling.
- Wear protective gear: rubber boots, waterproof gloves, and a face mask.
2. Assess the Situation
Take a moment to evaluate the extent of flooding:
- Is the water still rising?
- How deep is the water?
- Is there visible contamination (mud, sewage)?
- Are valuable items or critical home systems affected?
If the water is more than a few inches deep, rising quickly, or visibly contaminated, it’s time to call professional flooded basement cleanup services.
3. Emergency Steps for Minor Flooding
For minor flooding (less than an inch of clean water), you might be able to handle the initial cleanup:
- Remove water: Use a pump, wet vacuum, or even buckets to remove standing water.
- Move items: Relocate salvageable items to a dry area.
- Dry the area: Open the nearest windows and turn on the ceiling fan. It’s better if you can arrange a dehumidifier.
- Clean and disinfect: Once dry, clean all affected surfaces with a disinfectant solution.
Remember, even with minor flooding, hidden moisture can lead to mold growth. Consider having professionals assess the situation even after you’ve done the initial cleanup.
When to Call the Professionals for Flooded Basement Cleanup
Professional flooded basement cleanup services have the equipment and expertise to handle more severe situations safely and effectively. Call the pros if:
- The flooding is extensive (more than an inch or two of water)
- The water might be contaminated
- The flooding has affected electrical systems or appliances
- You spot signs of mold growth
- The flooding is due to sewage backup or groundwater
- You have health concerns that might be worsened by cleanup efforts
Professional services can:
- Safely remove large amounts of water
- To stop the formation of mold, properly dry and dehumidify the area.
- Sanitize the space, especially with contaminated water
- Assess and restore damaged items
- Identify and address the source of flooding to prevent future issues
Preventing Future Flooding
After dealing with the immediate crisis, consider these steps to prevent future basement flooding:
- Install a sump pump or check that your existing one is working properly
- Ensure proper grading around your home’s foundation
- Keep downspouts extended away from the house and clean the gutters.
- Seal any cracks in the foundation
- Consider waterproofing your basement walls
Insurance Considerations
Before starting any cleanup, document the damage with photos and videos for insurance purposes. Check your homeowner’s policy to understand what’s covered. Many policies don’t cover flooding unless you have specific flood insurance.
In any flooding situation, safety should be your top priority. If you’re unsure about the severity of the flooding or your ability to handle it, don’t hesitate to call for professional flooded basement cleanup service. It’s better to be cautious than to risk your health or cause further damage to your home.
