Steps to Take for Your Flooded Basement

Tips and tools to take on your flood fiasco.

By Mike Hall, Broker/Agent/Owner

The first step to clearing a flooded basement is to get rid of the water.

With all the rain Louisville has had lately, more and more homeowners are struggling with flooded basements. You should always consult a professional and your homeowner’s insurance agency, but here are some tips and suggestions for you to think through as you respond to this major experience.

• Wear protective gear, especially boots, a mask and gloves.
• If you have a floor drain, make sure it’s clear.
• Start removing water. You could use a sump pump, pool pump, wet vacuum or an old-fashioned mop. Soak up the last of it with towels or sponges.
• Move damaged items into an area where they can thoroughly dry for at least 48 hours. You might need to discard things that are still wet after that time.
• Don’t touch electrical things, even if the power is turned off. Let them dry in place, then have a professional handle them.
• Get carpeting and padding up as soon as possible. Wet carpet is a magnet for mold and mildew.
• Let the basement dry a few days.
• Wash down walls and floors to remove any grime brought in with the water.
• Replace any damaged drywall or insulation to prevent mold.
• When everything is dry, use an anti-mildew spray to prevent mold and mildew.

Remember, this might be a time for the professionals, especially if the flood was deep or if there are signs of mold developing.

[Source: American Home Shield]