What to do when basement is flooded? Discovering a flooded basement can be incredibly stressful. It’s essential to act swiftly and safely to minimize damage and protect your well-being. This guide outlines the crucial steps to take when facing a flooded basement.

1. Safety First

1. Disconnect Utilities: Before entering the basement, turn off the electricity at the main breaker. If you smell gas or suspect a gas leak, leave the house immediately and contact the gas company.
2. Avoid Contact with Water: Floodwater can be contaminated with sewage, chemicals, or bacteria. Wear protective gear, including rubber boots, gloves, and eye protection, when entering the basement.
3. Never Enter Deep Water: If the water is too deep to safely navigate, do not attempt to enter the basement. Contact a professional water damage restoration company for assistance.

2. Protect Your Belongings

1. Elevate Valuables: If possible, move furniture, appliances, and other belongings to higher ground or elevate them using blocks or crates.
2. Salvage Important Items: Remove important documents, photographs, and irreplaceable items from the basement as a priority.
3. Cover Electronics: Protect electronics and appliances by covering them with plastic sheeting or moving them to a dry location.

3. Pump Out the Water

1. Assess Water Level: If the water level is relatively low (a few inches), you can use a sump pump or a wet/dry vacuum to remove the water.
2. Rent a Pump: For larger volumes of water, consider renting a more powerful submersible pump from a home improvement store.
3. Professional Assistance: If the water level is high or you’re uncomfortable handling the water removal yourself, contact a professional water damage restoration company.

4. Clean and Disinfect

1. Remove Debris: Once the water is removed, clear out any debris, such as mud, silt, or damaged belongings.
2. Disinfect Surfaces: Use a solution of bleach and water (1 cup of bleach per gallon of water) to disinfect all surfaces that came into contact with floodwater. Wear gloves and eye protection while cleaning.
3. Air Out the Basement: Open windows and doors to ventilate the basement and promote drying. Use fans to circulate air and speed up the drying process.

5. Dry Out the Basement

1. Dehumidify: Use dehumidifiers to remove excess moisture from the air. Run them continuously until the basement is completely dry.
2. Monitor Humidity Levels: Use a hygrometer to monitor humidity levels. Aim for a relative humidity of 30-50%.
3. Address Wet Materials: Remove and discard any porous materials that cannot be thoroughly dried, such as drywall, insulation, or carpeting. These materials can harbor mold and bacteria.

6. Inspect for Damage

1. Structural Assessment: Check for cracks in the foundation, walls, or floors. Look for signs of warping or bulging, which can indicate structural damage.
2. Electrical System: Have a qualified electrician inspect the electrical system to ensure it’s safe to use. Do not attempt any electrical repairs yourself.
3. Plumbing: Inspect plumbing fixtures and pipes for leaks or damage. Contact a plumber if you suspect any issues.

7. Prevent Future Flooding

1. Identify the Source: Determine the cause of the flooding (e.g., heavy rainfall, burst pipe, sewer backup) to address the root problem.
2. Improve Drainage: Ensure that the ground around your home slopes away from the foundation to direct water runoff away from the basement. Install gutters and downspouts to channel rainwater away from the house.
3. Sump Pump Installation: Consider installing a sump pump system to automatically remove water that accumulates in the basement. Ensure the sump pump is properly maintained and working correctly.
4. Waterproofing: Explore basement waterproofing options, such as interior or exterior sealants, to prevent water from seeping through the walls or foundation.