I Have a Flooded Basement: 6 Steps to Take

A flooded basement is a homeowner’s worst nightmare, as it can cause significant damage to your property. Whether it’s a burst pipe or heavy rainfall, taking the proper steps promptly to mitigate the damage is essential. 

In this blog, we will cover six steps to take if you have a flooded basement. These steps will help you mitigate the damage and ensure a smooth recovery process, leaving you with a restored basement and peace of mind.

1. Prioritize Safety.

Handling a flooded basement can be a daunting and overwhelming experience. However, it is crucial to prioritize safety before taking action to prevent harm to yourself or your family.

• Turn off electricity: The first and most crucial step in ensuring safety is to turn off the electricity at the main breaker or fuse box. This step will prevent electrocution and reduce the risk of fire caused by a short circuit.
• Wear protective gear: When entering the flooded area, wear appropriate personal protective equipment.
• Check for gas leaks: Gas leaks can occur from water in the basement and can be extremely dangerous. If you smell gas or suspect a leak, evacuate the house immediately and call the gas company to shut off the gas supply.
• Ensure proper ventilation: Proper ventilation is crucial when handling a flooded basement. Opening windows and running fans or dehumidifiers will help remove moisture and prevent the growth of mold and fungi.
• Use caution when moving furniture and other items: Flooded basements can become slippery, and items can become waterlogged and extremely heavy. Be cautious when moving furniture and other items, and avoid heavy lifting when possible. You may also need to discard some items that are unsafe or too damaged to salvage.

2. Identify the Source of the Water.

• Identifying the source of the water in your flooded basement is a crucial step in understanding the cause and determining the best approach for addressing the issue.
• Observe the water flow: Take a moment to observe the water’s movement in your basement carefully. Pay attention to the direction and rate at which the water is flowing. This observation can give you valuable clues about the source of the water.
• Check for visible leaks: Inspect the walls, ceilings, and pipes in your basement for any visible signs of leaks. Look for dripping water, wet spots, or water stains. These signs can indicate a possible water source, such as a burst pipe or a leaking plumbing fixture.
• Inspect exterior sources: Check the outside of your house for potential sources of water intrusion. Look for excess water pooling near the foundation, clogged gutters or downspouts, damaged or poorly sealed windows, or cracks in the foundation walls.
• Consider drainage issues: Improper drainage can often lead to basement flooding. Check if your property has proper grading, where the land slopes away from the house. Look for signs of clogged or damaged drains, including downspouts, gutters, or exterior drain pipes.
• Evaluate Nearby Water Sources: Depending on the location of your property, nearby water sources such as lakes, rivers, or groundwater levels can affect your basement. Research if there are any recent heavy rains or if your area is prone to flooding. Understanding these external factors can provide insights into the water source in your basement.
• Remember, identifying the source of the water is crucial to effectively address the problem and preventing further damage.

3. Remove the Water.

Once you have identified the source of the water in your flooded basement, it’s essential to remove the water as quickly as possible to minimize damage.

• Use a wet/dry vacuum: If the water accumulation is relatively shallow, you can use a wet/dry vacuum to remove the water. Ensure the vacuum is suitable for handling water, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper usage. Be cautious not to plug in the vacuum if standing water is present.
• Utilize a sump pump: If a sump pump is installed in your basement, it can effectively remove water. Check to ensure the pump is in working condition and safely remove any debris or obstructions from the sump pit.
• Plug in the pump, and it will automatically pump out the water. Monitor the pump and empty the discharge outside at a safe distance from your home’s foundation.
• Use buckets and mops: If the flood is relatively minor, you can manually remove water using buckets and mops. Scoop water into buckets and empty them outside, away from the foundation. Mop up the remaining water from the floor to dry it as much as possible.
• Open windows and use fans: Once you have removed most of the standing water, opening windows and using fans or dehumidifiers can help accelerate the drying process. This will help remove excess moisture from the air and prevent the growth of mold and mildew.

4. Assess the Damage.

Assessing the damage after your basement has been dried out is crucial to understanding the full extent of the damage and formulating a plan for repair and restoration.

• Check for signs of mold: Mold can grow in as little as 48 hours after flooding, so it’s crucial to check for any signs of mold growth in your basement. Look for visible signs of mold, such as discoloration or musty odors.
• Check for structural damage: Structural damage to your basement walls or foundation can lead to long-term problems if not appropriately addressed. Look for cracks in the walls, bulges, or warping.
• Check electrical systems: Floodwater is a conductor of electricity, posing a risk of electrocution if electrical systems are not properly checked. Hire an electrician to inspect your electrical wiring, outlets, and switches. Electrical systems in your basement may have been affected, and non-expert handling may lead to severe damage.
• Check plumbing systems: Floodwater can also damage your plumbing systems, potentially causing leaks or blockages. Check your plumbing system, including pipes and sewage lines, for any visible signs of damage or leaks. Hire a licensed plumber to conduct a thorough inspection if necessary.
• Assess the flooring state: Flooding can also impact your basement flooring, especially if you have carpeted or hardwood floors. Check for any visible damage, swelling, or discoloration. If you have carpeted floors, consider replacing them since it can be challenging to completely dry and disinfect the padding.

5. Dry and Dehumidify the Basement.

Drying out and dehumidifying your basement after a flood is crucial to preventing long-term damage and mold growth.

• Increase Air Circulation: Proper airflow is essential in drying since moist air leads to mold growth. Open windows to increase natural ventilation or use fans to move air within the basement if the weather is favorable.
• Use a Dehumidifier: A dehumidifier is an effective tool for removing excess moisture from the air. Place the unit in the center of the room or an identified wet spot with the humidity level set appropriately. Dehumidifiers vary in capacity, depending on the size of your basement. Some units may need emptying regularly to prevent overflowing.
• Use Calcium Chloride: Calcium chloride is a hygroscopic material that can absorb moisture from the air. Place bowls of calcium chloride in the basement, and it will pull excess moisture from the air and store it in the containers. Be cautious, as these containers contain chemical substances.
• Remove Damaged Materials: Materials like wet insulation, drywall, or mold-infested carpet cannot be salvaged and will continue to release moisture into the air. It is best to remove these materials ASAP to facilitate the drying and dehumidification process.
• Monitor the Progress: The drying process may take several days to weeks to complete. Ensure to check, measure, and document humidity and dryness levels to ensure significant progress.

6. Clean and Disinfect the Basement.

Cleaning and disinfecting your basement after basement flooding helps prevent mold growth, bacteria, and other harmful contaminants.

• Start with a General Clean-up: Start by removing any debris, mud, or dirt that may have accumulated along with any water in basement flood situations. Consider power washing walls or concrete floors to remove the debris entirely.
• Disinfect with a Cleaning Solution: Mix warm water and a cleaner like household bleach or a specialized disinfectant. Using a garden pump sprayer, spray the solution on floors, walls, and any other surface that was affected by the flood. Use a brush on tough stains, and allow it to sit for the recommended amount of time on the cleaning solution instructions.
• Rinse and Dry Surfaces: Using a hose or power washer, rinse floors, walls, and surfaces thoroughly with clean water to remove all cleaning solutions. Drying is critical equipment, drying surfaces exposed to humidity or chocked with moisture will encourage mold growth. Design a drying plan, and adhere to it.
• Sanitize Unsalvageable Items: Items such as mattresses, carpets, or upholstered furniture that may have been in contact with contaminated floodwater may need to be disposed of. Attach a disposable mask to the affected items to prevent inhaling spores or mold, and seal them in a clear plastic bag for disposal.
• Disinfect Hardwood Floors: Hardwood floors can be salvaged. Consult with your manufacturer’s instructions to handle specific damage, as this can differ depending on the type of hardwood. Use a specialized cleaning solution or bleach solution for disinfection, then dry appropriately.

Conduct a final check: After the disinfection process, conduct a final check to ensure that all surfaces are appropriately cleaned and disinfected.

Water Damage Restoration With Western Disaster Clean Up

Don’t let the aftermath of basement flooding overwhelm you. Let Western Disaster Clean Up be your trusted ally in restoring your property to its pre-flood condition. Our experienced team is equipped with the knowledge and tools to handle water damage restoration efficiently and effectively. 

From water extraction to drying and dehumidification, our experts will ensure that every step is taken to preserve your home and prevent further damage. Contact Western Disaster Clean Up today and let us take care of your water in basement issues, so you can focus on getting your life back on track. Call us at 385.381.6266 for our 24/7 emergency services.