4 Steps to Recover From a Flooded Basement
Basement flooding is one of the most dreaded catastrophes for homeowners. However, if you don’t panic and act fast, you can prevent a lot of damage. This article will detail a few things you can do to save your belongings and recover quickly from the accident.
1. Act Fast
Don’t wait to act once you notice flooding. Unless the damage is caused by rain, spring into action right away. If it is raining, wait for the storm to pass. Your first step to recovery should be to turn your electricity and gas off. Do not hesitate to call an electrician if you have any doubts about the safety of the flooded area.
2. Protect Yourself
Outfit yourself with protective gear before entering the water. Put on any water-proof boots and gloves you have; if you have waders, equip those, too. Once you are protected, carefully begin to search for the source of the flooding.
3. Check for Drains
One simple fix might be the floor drain. If you have one in your basement, it could have become clogged. If you do not have a floor drain, start removing water manually. It is best to hire a professional who offers services like mechanical dewatering. This is the safest and fastest way to recovery your basement from a flood.
4. Remove Wet Items
Once the water is removed, start the recovery process. Take out any damaged items and dry them off, preferably in the sun or a well-ventilated area. Paper materials might not be worth saving because they can attract mold and cause further problems. Wait for at least two days and check your damaged items. If you have any electrical items, contact a technician to look at them and diagnose if they are safe to use.
The only thing left to do is contact your insurance provider if you have flood insurance. It may take some time, but you can fully recover from a basement flood by acting fast and hiring expert assistance.