What to Do if Your Basement Floods

Posted on: Feb 22, 2024

ProWaterUser2020

What To Do If Your Basement Floods - Pro Waterproofers

Basement flooding is one of the most damaging and costly problems a homeowner can face. Not only does it destroy your personal belongings, but it also weakens your home’s foundation and compromises its structural integrity.

No matter the reason, you must know what to do if your basement floods to determine your next best course of action, including knowing when it’s time to call the pros.

1. Turn Off Power Outlets and Other Sources of Electricity

Never enter a flooded area while the power is on. You risk getting electrocuted with power outlets likely submerged underwater.

So, before stepping into your flooded basement, turn off your circuit breaker and any gas appliances, like the hot water tank or furnace. If this isn’t doable, and your circuit breaker is in the basement, call your electrician so they can safely shut these areas off for you.

2. Identify the Source of the Flood

Your next step is to determine the source of your basement’s flood.

If it’s due to rainwater or other harsh weather conditions, then there’s a chance the water will continue to rise. Ensure that you and the members of your household evacuate the area before the water rises to dangerous levels.

However, if the basement flood is coming from inside the home, there could be several reasons, such as clogged foundation drains, burst pipes, a hot water tank failure, or leaks that accumulate over time.

3. Take Proper Safety Precautions

Assume that the water flooding your basement is unsanitary. So, before you wade in, ensure you’ve put on boots, gloves, and a mask to keep yourself safe. This is particularly important if the source of the flood is a backed-up sewer system or heavy rain.

Once in the water, move carefully to avoid injuries.

 A person standing in a basement flood wearing yellow rubber boots
Image source: Canva

4. Document the Damage and Call Your Insurance Company

Seeing the damage done to your property may cause you to panic immediately. However, it’s crucial you document the affected items and area, such as ruined floors, damaged sump pump system, or cracked foundation walls, for your insurance. This way, you have evidence of the damage to your belongings and basement when it’s time to make a claim.

5. Drain the Water Out

Time is of the essence when your basement floods. You only have 48 to 76 hours to remove moisture before mould starts to grow. So don’t wait for floor drains to work—if it’s safe, remove the water yourself.

Use a wet vacuum or mop and bucket to remove standing water. A pump may make removing large volumes of water at once easier. When most of the water has been removed, switch to sponges and towels to soak up the remaining water.

6. Clean the Floors and Walls

It’s time to sanitize your basement once the flood water has been drained. Use soap and warm water to wipe the walls. As for the floors, mix one cup of chlorine bleach with a gallon of water and scrub vinyl tile, linoleum, or other hard surfaces thoroughly with it to remove bacteria.

When doing this, ensure you have enough ventilation and wear protective gloves, eyewear and a mask. You can also use a dehumidifier or air purifier with a HEPA filter to prevent mould spores and allergens. If you find suspicious mould spots, clean them with bleach and warm water.

A man cleaning the black mould off his basement walls
Image Source: Canva

7. Dry Out the Area and Increase Air Circulation

Lastly, you’ll need to draw moisture out of every crevice in your basement. Open windows and doors to let fresh air into your basement. Speed up the drying process with plug-in fans and industrial dehumidifiers. Ensure the humidifiers are at least six to eight inches from the walls for the best air circulation.

Prevent Future Flooding With Reliable Waterproofing Solutions

While it’s crucial you know what to do if your basement floods, the best course of action is still to prevent flooding in the first place.

Installing a sump pump, unclogging your gutters and downspouts, or regularly inspecting your foundation walls for cracks are just some ways to prevent basement flooding.

Relieve yourself of these worries when you enlist our expert Burlington waterproofing services at PRO Waterproofers. For over a decade, we’ve provided countless homes in Ontario with flood-free basements that withstand some of our most extreme weather conditions.

Call us today and take advantage of our free in-home consultation!

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