Tips for Cleaning a Flooded Basement

5/26/2020 (Permalink)

Flooded basement in Glendale, AZ

Tips for Cleaning a Flooded Basement

A basement flood is a big problem and can happen for many reasons. It could be the result of a slow, soaking rain, a quick, heavy downpour, a broken pipe, or for some other reason. When it does happen, certain principles should be followed to remedy the situation. Always keep in mind these timeless principles:

• Think safety first
  
• Be aware of electrical hazards
  
• Keep children, pets and family members away from the water
  
• Assume the water is contaminated with unhealthy substances
  
• Remove water before entering the basement
  
  

Whenever a property owner or renter is faced with a large water event, he or she should consider the services of a professional water remediation team. Highly-trained technicians will have the experience and the equipment to handled flooded areas of a home.

Basement Flood
In addition to the possibility of electrical hazards, a flooded basement can pose other perils. Occasionally, the water in a home in Glendale, AZ, might contain wild, trapped animals. Everything from rats and snakes to opossums and raccoons could be floating on the top of the water, looking to escape. More often than not, depending upon the water source, a flood contains dirty water that should be approached with caution. Water from outside the home should be suspected of carrying germs, chemicals, and other harmful materials. If the water comes from inside the home, such as a broken sewer line, the water is equally suspect and should be avoided except by professionals with personal protective equipment.

Insurance Coverage
As soon as is practical, victims of a basement flood should look into their insurance situation. Floods caused by rain and storms are covered by special flood insurance that is typically purchased through the federal government. A big water event that is the result of a sudden, catastrophic breaking of a water pipe or some other plumbing problem is often covered by a regular insurance policy.