Floods aren’t just highly inconvenient, they can also be dangerous and cause a lot of damage. Unfortunately, basements are especially prone to flooding due to their location below ground level—and since many households use basements for storage, the threat of floods can be particularly worrisome. The good news is that you can take steps to mitigate the effects of flooding so your basement doesn’t end up completely ruined.
Here are a few steps to take if your basement floods.
Stop the Water
As soon as you realize that your basement is flooding, it’s essential to quickly stop the water if you can. Now since there are different sources of flooding, this step might look a little different depending on the cause.
For example, if it’s heavy rainfall that’s flooding your basement, you’ll need to quickly seal up any openings in walls or windows that are allowing water inside. And, if the flooding is coming from a burst pipe or other plumbing issue, you’ll need to shut off the main water supply as soon as possible.
Clear Out the Water
Once you’ve stopped the water from coming in, it’s time to clear out any standing water that has already accumulated in your basement. The longer you wait to do this, the more damage water can do to your property and belongings.
Again, there are different ways to do this. Depending on the severity of the flooding, you can either use buckets and mops to get rid of small amounts of water or rent a submersible pump if there is more water than you can handle on your own. Whatever method you choose, act quickly and efficiently to get rid of the water.
Dry Out the Basement
Once all of the standing water is gone, you want to thoroughly dry out your basement. Since basements are prone to dampness and moisture, this process can be incredibly time-consuming and may include using fans and dehumidifiers to ensure all of the water is gone.
In addition, you’ll need to do a thorough inspection of the area for any signs of mold or mildew. If you find any, don’t hesitate to call in a professional to safely and effectively remove it from your basement.
Call Your Insurance Company
When it comes to flooding, your best bet is to always call your insurance company. Depending on the severity of the damage and your policy’s coverage, you may be eligible for some form of financial assistance for the flood damage.
Even if you don’t have flood insurance, there may still be other options available to help cover the costs of repairs or replacement of any items that were damaged in the flood. So don’t be afraid to reach out and find out what’s covered and what isn’t—the sooner you do this, the better your chances are at saving some money.
Floods are a huge hassle and can cause a lot of damage to your property, but they don’t always have to be disastrous. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure that your basement doesn’t suffer permanent damage. So clear out standing water and dry everything thoroughly, and don’t forget to call your insurance company.
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