My Basement Has Flooded! What Next?

7/26/2021 (Permalink)

If a flooded home in Bountiful, UT, is not cleaning well, mold can grow in the affected surfaces.

Discovering standing water in your Bountiful, UT, basement is a disaster no one wants to experience. A basement flood can not only be hazardous to your and your family, but it can also cause severe damage to your home and its contents. It's essential to know the steps to take during this situation to minimize the negative impact.

1. Shut Off the Electricity

First and foremost, it's vital to turn off the home's electricity before you step into the basement. An electrical current can be flowing through the water if electrical components (including outlets) are exposed to the water. If you can't navigate to the power box safely, call a professional electrician to shut it off before anyone enters the basement.

2. Investigate the Origin of the Flooding

Next, inspect the area to find the origin of the flooding. Once you find it, stop it by shutting off the source, if possible.

3. Extract the Water

Remove the standing water by using a wet/dry vacuum, if available. It's typically the most efficient and effective method of extracting water and floating debris from a basement flood. Otherwise, you'll need a mop and towels. Flood restoration specialists can use their commercial-grade equipment to remove all of the water.

4. Clean and Sanitize the Area and Contents

Next, you must clean and sanitize the entire affected area and all salvageable contents. This washing is vital if it's water from a sewer backup or an outdoor flood.

5. Thoroughly Dry the Area and Contents

One of the most important parts of cleaning after a flooded basement is ensuring the thorough drying of the whole area and everything in it within 48 hours of water exposure. Mold can quickly begin growing on most surfaces.

Water from a basement flood can wreak havoc on a home's structure and contents. Remediation needs to begin immediately. Be proactive and check your insurance coverage beforehand so you'll know what is and isn't included in your homeowner's policy.