Flooded Basement? Don’t Panic- Here’s What to Do in 9 Easy Steps

Coming downstairs to find a flooded basement is enough to make anyone’s heart race. Even the handiest DIYer dreads coming downstairs to 4 inches of water on the floor, and its only rising.

At a loss? Complete Restoration is on your side. We’re here to guide you through the steps you need to take when your basement floods. We’ll go over why you’re dealing with a basement flood in the first place, and equip you with some helpful tips to prevent this nightmare from happening in the future. Let’s take a look.

9 Steps To Take when your basement floods

1. Find the Source of Water

Before you do anything else, identify where the water is coming from. Is it a broken pipe, a leak in your foundation, or rainwater seeping in from outside? Knowing the source of the water is crucial because it will determine your next steps. If it’s a plumbing issue, shutting off the water supply might be necessary. If it’s rainwater, you may need to address drainage issues outside.

2.Cut off power to basement

Your safety is the top priority. Water and electricity are a dangerous combination, so you’ll want to cut off the power to your basement immediately. Head to your breaker box and switch off the circuit that powers your basement. If you’re unsure how to do this or if the breaker box is in a flooded area, call an electrician for help.

3. Take Care- safety precautions

Before you step into the flooded area, take necessary safety precautions. Wear protective gear like rubber boots and gloves to keep yourself safe from harmful bacteria, chemicals, or sharp objects that might be lurking in the water. Floodwater can be contaminated, so avoiding direct contact as much as possible is crucial. If the flood is due to a sewage backup, consider wearing a mask to protect yourself from harmful fumes.

4. pump out the water

Now it’s time to start removing the water. Depending on the amount of water, you can use a sump pump, wet vacuum, or even a mop and bucket for smaller amounts. The faster you get the water out, the less damage it will cause. If the flooding is severe, don’t hesitate to call in professionals who have the right equipment to handle large volumes of water quickly and efficiently.

5. Air Flow is the Way to Go

Once the water is out, it’s essential to dry out the space to prevent mold growth. Open windows and doors if possible to create cross-ventilation. Use fans and dehumidifiers to circulate air and reduce moisture levels. This step is critical because even a small amount of leftover moisture can lead to mold and mildew, which can cause health issues and further damage your property.

6. Get the Wet Stuff Out

Anything that got wet during the flood—like carpets, furniture, and boxes—needs to be removed from the basement as soon as possible. The longer these items stay wet, the more likely they are to develop mold or become permanently damaged. If you can, take these items outside to dry in the sun or bring them to an area with good ventilation. For items that can’t be salvaged, dispose of them properly to avoid further contamination.

7. Call Insurance Company

Once the immediate danger has passed, it’s time to call your insurance company. Report the flood and start the claims process right away. Take detailed pictures and videos of the damage before you move anything, as this documentation will be crucial for your claim. Be prepared to provide your insurance company with as much information as possible, including when the flood occurred, the source of the water, and the extent of the damage.

Pro Tip: Take pictures of the damage before moving anything!

8. Call in for back up

You don’t have to handle this alone. Depending on the severity of the flood, you may need to call in professionals to help with the cleanup and repairs. Consider contacting a water damage restoration company (like Complete Flood Restoration!) to handle the water extraction and drying process. You might also need a mold inspector to ensure your home is safe from mold growth, an electrician to check for electrical issues, and a plumber to repair any broken pipes or plumbing issues.

9. Clean the basement

Once it’s safe, the final step is to clean up. Start by removing any remaining debris and then thoroughly disinfect the entire area. This will help prevent mold and mildew from taking hold and ensure that your basement is safe to use again. Use a strong disinfectant on all surfaces, including walls, floors, and any furniture that came into contact with the floodwater. This step is crucial in restoring your basement to its pre-flood condition and preventing any lingering health risks.

Most Common Causes of a Basement Flood

Basement floods can be a homeowner’s worst nightmare, and they often seem to come out of nowhere. Whether it’s pouring rain or a clear day, a flooded basement can catch you off guard.

Wet Weather: Heavy Rain, Snowmelt, & Groundwater

One of the most common reasons for basement flooding is wet weather. During heavy rains, your home’s drainage system might be overwhelmed, leading to water seeping into your basement. Here’s how it happens:

• Heavy Rainfall: When the ground around your home becomes saturated with rainwater, it can no longer absorb more water. This excess water can then seep through cracks in your foundation or walls, leading to a flood in your basement. Poorly maintained gutters and downspouts that are clogged or improperly directed can exacerbate the problem, causing water to pool around your foundation.
• Snowmelt: In colder climates, the thawing of snow and ice can lead to basement floods. As the snow melts, the water needs to go somewhere, and if the ground is still frozen or already saturated, that water could end up in your basement. A rapid thaw, combined with rain, can quickly overwhelm drainage systems, leading to significant flooding.
• Rising Groundwater: In some areas, a high water table can be a constant threat. After prolonged periods of rain or in areas with poor drainage, groundwater levels can rise. When the groundwater reaches the level of your basement floor, it can push through cracks in your foundation, causing a flood. This type of flooding can be particularly challenging to control, as it’s related to the natural water levels in the ground.

Dry Weather: Plumbing Issues, Foundation Cracks, and Faulty Appliances

Surprisingly, basement floods can also happen during dry weather. Here’s what might cause a flood when the skies are clear:

• Plumbing Issues: A burst pipe, faulty water heater, or broken washing machine hose can release a significant amount of water into your basement. These types of floods can happen suddenly and cause extensive damage if not addressed quickly. Regular maintenance and inspections of your home’s plumbing system are essential to prevent these issues.
• Foundation Cracks: Even in dry weather, cracks in your foundation can allow water to seep into your basement. Over time, natural settling of your home or poor construction can lead to these cracks. While they might seem minor at first, they can become pathways for water when it rains or if there’s a high water table in your area.
• Faulty Appliances: Water-based appliances, such as washing machines, dishwashers, and water heaters, are common culprits of basement floods. A malfunctioning appliance can release water into your home, leading to a flood. Regularly inspecting and maintaining these appliances can help prevent such disasters.
• Sump Pump Failure: A sump pump is your basement’s first line of defense against flooding. If your sump pump fails due to a power outage, mechanical issue, or overwhelming water volume, your basement could quickly fill with water. It’s crucial to regularly test your sump pump and consider having a backup power source, such as a battery-operated pump, in case of emergencies.

How to Keep Your Basement Dry: Flooding Prevention Tips

Keep your basement dry and your peace of mind intact with these tips:

• Check Hoses and Faucets: Regularly inspect your washing machine, water heater, and other appliances for leaks.

Clean Gutters and Downspouts: Ensure they’re free of debris and directing water away from your home’s foundation.

Trim Trees: Overhanging branches can damage your roof or block gutters, leading to water buildup.

Inspect for Leaks, Mold, and Cracks: Check around toilets, sinks, and appliances.

Monitor Water Pressure: High water pressure can strain pipes and cause leaks.

Watch Your Water Bill: An unexpected spike could indicate a hidden leak.

Know How to Shut Off Your Main Water Supply: Quick action can prevent a small leak from becoming a big disaster.

Inspect Your Roof and Chimney: Look for damage that could let water in.

Install Water Alarms: Get notified at the first sign of trouble.

Update Drainage Systems: Ensure proper drainage around your home.

Install a Sump Pump: A must-have for homes prone to flooding. Read more in our blog post here.

Replace Old Pipes: Aging pipes are more likely to fail.

Install a Water Leak Detection System: Early detection can save you a lot of headaches.

Update Windows and Doors: Make sure they’re properly sealed.

Seal Your Basement: Waterproofing your basement walls and floors is a solid investment.

Replace Washing Machine Supply Hoses: Consider upgrading to steel-braided hoses for added durability.

Leave Flood Cleanup to the Pros: How Complete Restoration Can Help

When disaster strikes, Complete Restoration is here to take the weight off your shoulders. Here’s how we handle a basement flood:

• We Ask the Right Questions: We assess the scope of the damage and your specific needs.
• Thorough Inspection and Assessment: We identify the extent of water damage, ensuring no issue goes unnoticed.
• Water Extraction and Removal: We use specialized equipment to remove water quickly and efficiently.
• Damaged Material Removal: We safely dispose of anything that can’t be salvaged.
• Clean, Sanitize, and Freshen Up: We make sure your basement is not only dry but also clean and free of any lingering odors.
• Drying: We use high-powered fans and dehumidifiers to thoroughly dry the area.
• Repair and Construction: We restore your basement to its pre-flood condition, making it better than ever.

FAQ

– How to Clean Concrete Basement Flood

Start by removing any standing water with a pump or wet vacuum. Once the water is cleared, clean and disinfect the area to prevent mold growth.

– How do I prevent basement flooding during heavy rain?

Ensure your gutters and downspouts are clean and direct water away from your foundation. Consider installing a sump pump and sealing cracks in your basement walls.

-What’s the best way to dry out a flooded basement?

Use fans and dehumidifiers to circulate air and reduce moisture levels. Removing any wet materials, like carpets or furniture, will speed up the drying process.

-Is it safe to live in a house with a flooded basement?

Dealing with a flooded basement can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. Complete Restoration is here to help every step of the way. Call us today at 726-215-5245, and let’s get your basement—and your peace of mind—back to normal.