What if my basement is flooded? - nj.com

A flooded basement can panic even the most experienced homeowner. But despite the gravity of the situation, there are ways to negotiate even the most flooded basements.

Find out what to do if your basement floods here.

The first thing to do before doing anything else is to turn off all power sources connected to your flooded basement.

If you are unsure how to turn off power to your basement, consult an electrician before attempting to tidy and clean the area.

The second thing you want to do is find out where the source of the water is coming from.

If your basement has been flooded by heavy rain or a storm, wait for the storm to pass before attempting to repair your basement.

If something else caused the flooding, such as a burst pipe, it is appropriate to take immediate action to prevent the water from flowing.

If you're not sure how your basement was flooded, contact a plumber or a disaster recovery specialist.

Once you get the go-ahead from an electrician or plumber, it's best to start cleaning your basement as soon as possible.

Before entering the basement, put on protective equipment such as safety glasses, face shield, thick gloves and waterproof boots.

You should also open your basement windows to vent the fumes while you clean the area.

Using a dehumidifier can also help remove moisture and water residue from the air.

Tear off wet carpets or drywall as this can cause mold to develop. Remove all water-damaged items from the basement and let them dry for 48 hours .

If the items don't dry after 48 hours, they should probably be discarded.

Disinfect all surfaces with a scrubbing brush that contains a mixture of hot water and bleach or detergent on the walls and floors. This will prevent mold and bacteria from growing in your basement.

If you'd prefer to have your water-damaged basement examined by a professional, a water remediation / remediation service can do all of the cleaning for you.

But be prepared to pay a dime for these services. The average cost for these services ranges from $ 1,206 to $ 5,116, according to HomeAdvisor .

Our journalism needs your support. Subscribe to NJ.com today

Katherine Rodríguez can be reached at krodriguez@njadvancemedia.com . Do you have any advice Let us know at nj.com/tips .

Adblock test (why?)