Here we are: after the fact. You’ve had a basement flood. What do you do next?
Basement floods come with major headaches. You, your family, and your possessions are most likely completely drenched. You’ve probably lost power, too, which makes all the water even more of a hazard.
It’s easy to be quickly disheartened and hopeless at this point. But if you act fast, you can limit damages and get your family back to normal as quickly as possible.
Check out this list and figure out what to do immediately, what you should do in the next few days, and what will take a few months. Read on.
1. Pump Out the Water
Depending on the amount of flooding in your basement, you will need to either rent or buy a pump to get the job done. The pump should fit securely inside the flooded area, which allows it to suck out the water.
Make sure to wear protective eyewear and gloves during the process, to avoid any contamination. When the majority of the water has been removed, you can then use a wet/dry vac to remove any remaining water.
2. Turn off the Power at the Breaker
Locate the main breaker (usually the largest switch) and move it to the off position. What follows this might vary depending on the type of box and breakers you have. You may have to shut off each individual circuit or twist a handle that cuts off power to the whole box.
3. Identify the Source of the Water
Inspect the inside walls and floors for any signs of water damage. Look for water stains, damp flooring, or areas where the walls and floors appear to be warped from water damage. Check the walls and floors for broken pipes or other exposed plumbing that could be the source of the water.
4. Contact Professionals for Repairs
Search for local licensed professionals trained and experienced in such repairs. Before hiring one, read reviews, and check with the local government agency to ensure a valid license. Contact a few of them and get quotations in writing for their water damage restoration services.
Compare the quotes, and make sure you understand their process and cost estimates. After selecting the professional, clearly discuss the scope of work, timeline, and payment details.
5. Get a Hold of Your Insurance Provider
Be sure to have your policy information handy and have a clear understanding of your coverage. Then, call your provider and explain what happened. During this conversation be sure to answer all their questions and provide details about the extent of the damage.
Once the conversation is complete, follow the guidance from the company to file your insurance claim, to gain a better understanding of the process, and the estimated timeline. Your provider will likely work with you and provide the necessary steps to complete the claim process.
Get Knowledgeable About a Basement Flood Today
Your basement has flooded and you may be feeling overwhelmed. The key is to take action to clear the water and ensure the area is properly dried out. Carefully assess the situation, take action to pump out the water, and then work on drying the area out.
Taking these steps will help avoid further damage to your basement and belongings. Don’t underestimate the damage that a basement flood can cause. Contact professionals to ensure your basement is properly cleaned and restored.
If you find this helpful and want to read more great content, check out our latest blog posts now!
