If your basement floods during a storm or downpour, you may feel confused about what to do. You might find what to do if your basement floods it difficult to navigate through soggy boxes of books, wet carpeting, floating dog food bowls, and soggy sofas. However, it would be best if you acted quickly. A clogged drain, faulty sump pump, or backed-up gutters can cause mould to grow within 24 to 48 hours. Mop up the water and fix the damage as soon as possible.
If you have damp possessions, you must retrieve them as soon as possible. D disconnecting the service before walking into the water may be necessary if you have a large amount of standing water in your basement. Do not touch anything electrical that is what to do if your basement floods. If there is a lot of standing water in your basement, call your power company, an electrician, or a professional flood cleanup company.
Aftermath photographs
Get out your phone and take pictures and video of the flooded area before you start cleaning up, whether you plan to file an insurance claim or not. The adjuster may be able to determine your payment if you file a claim, according to FEMA. Once all items have been photographed, begin tossing clothing, bedding, pillows, cardboard, paper bags and perishable food that could attract mould.
Water should be removed.
Water should be removed as soon as possible. A few inches of water can usually be removed with a wet vac. If you do not have one, borrow one, or buy one. Major water damage may require the help of a professional. When your damage is minor, you can wipe it up using towels, but you must wash and dry them immediately to prevent mould.
It needs to be dried.
Keep dehumidifiers and fans at least six to eight inches away from walls to circulate air efficiently and prevent mould and mildew growth. Keep air conditioners running constantly. Throw away any wet boxes. Keep your dehumidifiers at least six to eight inches away from walls. Clean your filters every week or so. Clean your air conditioners once a week.
Scrub the flooring
To clean vinyl tile and linoleum, mix one cup of chlorine bleach with one gallon of water. While doing this process, take precautions such as wearing rubber gloves and safety glasses.
Gutter, downspout, and drain cleanliness
Clean out basement steps and drains. Remove leaves and twigs. Take out drain screens and clean them thoroughly. If necessary, use a plunger to clear the drains. Muck out gutters and downspouts.