Steps to Clean a Flooded Basement

Step 1: Turn Off Electricity

Water and electricity don’t mix, so your safety should come first. Turn off the power to your basement at the main breaker box before anything else. Never enter a flooded basement when the power is still on.

Step 2: Pump Out Water

The method you’ll use to remove standing water will depend on the severity of the flood and the size of your basement. For small amounts of water, you can use a wet/dry vacuum or a bucket and mop to remove the water. However, large volumes of water will require a submersible pump to save time and effort. Water removal should be done as quickly as possible to prevent further damage and mold growth.

Step 3: Remove Water-Damaged Items

Before you pump out standing water, remove all the items, including furniture, electronics, exercise equipment, and other valuables. This step is necessary to prevent further damage to your items and make space for water removal and other remediation tasks. Items such as carpets, drywall, and insulation may not be salvaged after basement flooding, so you’re better off getting rid of them.

Step 4: Dry Out the Basement

This is a critical step that is often overlooked during basement cleanup after flooding. If you don’t dry out a flooded basement, you’ll create the perfect environment for mold growth. Remember, mold grows within a span of 24-48 hours, so you need to move with speed to alleviate a mold infestation. You can run a dehumidifier for a few hours to speed up the drying process or use high-velocity air movers to maximize airflow. If mold has already grown, you may need to call in a mold remediation expert to help you out.

Step 5: Clean the Basement

Floodwater can contain harmful bacteria and contaminants that can pose risks to your health. That’s why it’s important to clean the walls, floors, and other surfaces with detergent solution. Cleaning the area also helps to prevent mold growth. If the source of water damage is sewage backup, it’s advisable to disinfect the space using a bleach solution. Also, make sure you call a trusted plumbing service to address the root cause of sewage backup and prevent future occurrences.

Call Mr. Rooter Plumbing for Leak Detection and All of Your Basement Plumbing Needs

One of the ways to prevent basement flooding is to keep the plumbing in great shape and ensure your sump pump is in good working condition. If the pipes running through your basement are in disrepair or your sump pump is showing signs of damage, you need to call a plumbing repair service to perform an inspection and help you fix them.