Steps to Cleaning a Flooded Basement

2/12/2022 (Permalink)

If you have water damage in your home, you can count on SERVPRO, we offer our cleanup and restoration services around the clock, 7 days a week.

Cleaning A Flooded Basement: A Step-by-Step Guide

A house flood can happen unexpectedly, and if you live in Fort Myers, FL, you may come home one day to find a flooded basement. Insurance coverage will vary according to the policy, and after the initial shock and aggravation, it will be important to find out exactly what damage from a basement flood will be covered by your homeowner or flood insurance.

Many insurance companies will connect you with professional water damage services that will do the heavy clean-up for you. In the meantime, you can begin initial cleaning of your waterlogged basement to prevent prolonged structural damage from the standing water. Here is where you can begin.

1. Choose Your Pump

You have got to begin the process of getting the water out of the basement. Depending on how much there is, you can either use a shop vac or a gas-powered pump. A shop vac plugged into an upstairs outlet can be used for a few inches of water. On the other hand, a deep basement flood requires extreme caution and usually a gas-powered pump is the best way to go to prevent electrocution.

2. Trash the Appliances

Any appliances that you have in the basement will most likely need to go. Appliances that have been in a flood usually cannot be salvaged, and this recommendation also includes any outlets, fixtures, or electrical motors that have been under water. Gas appliances and fixtures will likely have to be discarded as well.

3. Evaluate the Drywall and Floors

If the drywall has been under water, it will have to be removed, as will insulation. If these items are above the water line, they can often be salvaged. Flooring most likely will need to be replaced. Carpet can sometimes be dried and put back.

A basement flood can be a nightmare for any homeowner or renter in Fort Myers, FL. Being proactive in cleanup until the professionals arrive can give you a sense of control in an uncontrollable circumstance.