Flooded basements can be devastating. Flooding can result in costly water damage, mold growth and structural issues which require costly home repairs – as well as possible claims on insurance policies. Here are some tips to help clean up and repair damage to your basement from flooding.
First, locate the source of flooding. This could include anything from clogged floor drains or sump pumps that have stopped functioning to broken pipes that need mending or restoration work being performed on. Stopping water flow should come before any further cleaning or restoration projects commence – hiring a plumber might also help here if you cannot identify its source and block it on your own.
Step two is to remove items affected by water, such as carpeting, padding or flooring that is saturated by it. In addition, use a shop-vac that can accommodate liquids to extract as much of the surplus moisture as possible so as to limit any further damage in your basement.
Once everything has been cleared out of the basement, it is wise to consult a licensed electrician in order to assess for potential electrical issues. This is particularly relevant if flooding occurred for an extended period; water can easily penetrate outlets and switches and cause them to trip breaker circuits, extinguish pilot lights or trip breakers altogether. A licensed electrician will be able to determine whether wiring has been compromised and make necessary repairs.
After having an electrician examine the electricity, it’s advisable to switch off power in that area in order to prevent electrocution if someone goes into a flooded area to inspect or remove anything. Homeowners may wish to wear rubber boots or waders while entering their basement as standing water can contain potentially hazardous contaminants that must be protected against.
As the basement dries out, fans and dehumidifiers should be used to increase ventilation and speed the process. Once dry, wash walls and floors thoroughly to remove any dirt that has accumulated over time.
No homeowner wants to imagine their basement flooding, but being prepared is key in case something unexpected comes up. American Home Shield(r) offers home warranties to protect against unexpected issues like this like flooding. Our protection extends up to 23 systems and appliances like A/C, heating system, washer/dryer combo units, etc. To learn more, connect with an American Home Shield agent near you to explore whether optional coverages such as hidden water damage coverage and sump pump failure might make sense for your household and help file claims with insurance providers if necessary.