How to Handle a Flooded Basement

There’s nothing worse than finding that your basement has flooded. Follow these steps until you are able to call in a professional plumber-like us!

1.Examine the Damage – First examine the flood from a safe, dry distance. Do not enter the flood right away without protective gear, as there is a threat of electric shock, as well if the water came from a sewer pipe, it may contain harmful bacteria. If you’re positive you can do so safely, turn off the power to the house. Finally, if you are able to do so, check for gas leaks and structural damage. In situations where you are unsure, it is always best to wait for a professional plumber and to not enter the flooded area.

2. Shut off the Water – If you are certain it is safe to do so, shut off the source of the water and stop the flood. This may involve turning off the plumbing in your home, so it is helpful to learn how to do this before disaster strikes. If it is a sewage backup, do not use the toilet or any other household appliances that use water, such as the laundry machine.

3.Insurance – After calling a plumber, you should make sure to contact your insurance company. Take plenty of photos of the damage and keep all your receipts for any emergency repairs or purchases to provide them with, so you can get the best possible coverage.

4.Prepare for the Future – There are several preventative measures you can take to help ease damage during basement flooding or to prevent a flood all together, such as keeping valuables in water-proof containers, installing a sump pump, or upgrading your foundation’s drainage system. This will help prevent future flooding, but it also will make the insurance company more likely to satisfy your claim if a flood should occur.

Go Green Plumbing is available to help you with all your plumbing emergency’s, so please feel free to give us a call at 289-244-9843 or send us an e-mail at info@gogreenplumbing.ca.

Thank you for reading!