WHAT TO DO WHEN YOUR BASEMENT FLOODS

12/10/2021 (Permalink)

a guy standing in a Flooded Basement

Basements are vulnerable to flooding because they're built partially, if not entirely below ground. For this reason, basement floods can occur outside of rainy seasons and rapid snowmelts at any time of year, even when the weather conditions are dry.  Here are some tips on how to proceed.

• Shut off any power around the area, including electricity and gas. Never enter a flooded area while the power is on. Call an electrician before entering the room if you aren't sure how to shut these areas off. 
• Try to determine the source of the water. For example, if it is a burst pipe, make sure the water main is off. It can also be excessive rainfall since those are two top reasons your basement may flood. 
• Call your home insurance company and report the flood if you have flood insurance. Confirm your coverage limits, deductible amount, and claim procedures. 
• If your basement has a floor drain, check that it didn't become clogged during the flood. Keeping it open and functioning will help drain the water. 
• Find a way to remove or pump water out of the basement before the water comes up through the ground and enters the home, causing flooding in the basement and other parts of the house.  
• Remove any items, like furniture, that appear damaged by the water and move them to a space where they can dry. If the drying process on items takes longer than a couple of days, unfortunately, they may not be salvaged. All things should be monitored for mildew growth.
• Get the air moving in the basement to dry it out. Open windows and doors to get as much ventilation as possible, and place fans around the room for air circulation and speed drying time.

Our SERVPRO team of Durango are Professionals in water damage restoration. We are your best option to efficiently and thoroughly inspect your home of standing water and get it cleaned up quickly. Several potential problems could arise from waiting to address standing water in your house.

Give our SERVPRO of Durango a call today at 970-259-6184. We'll make it look "Like it never even happened. "