What To Do When a Basement Floods

3/7/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has a team of licensed water damage restoration professionals who are ready to restore your home or business after any damage at any time.

When a Basement Floods, What Should You Do?

A basement flood can result in extensive water damage and pose secondary risks, such as mold growth. Here are several reasons why a basement may flood, steps homeowners should take, and insurance coverage guidelines.

A Broken Pipe

A pipe break can rapidly fill a basement with water, particularly if homeowners are not aware of the problem or are away from home. A homeowner should take the following steps:

• Shut off the main water supply
• Turn off power at the breaker box if possible
• Contact electric and gas companies if flooding is severe

Shutting off water may limit the amount of damage. These other measures can promote the safety of residents and restoration workers.

An Appliance Leak

An appliance such as a water heater or washing machine may leak. While the cause of this damage may not be a covered peril, insurance coverage should be available for the resulting basement flood. A homeowner can take several measures:

• Shut off the water supply to the appliance or the main supply
• Shut off electricity or gas to the appliance or the main supply
• Contact an appliance repair specialist or plumber

Limit damage by removing as much water as possible. A water damage cleanup company can be helpful if damage is severe.

Heavy Rain or Rising Water

Flooding from external sources can cause extensive damage and is excluded from most homeowners insurance policies. An additional flood policy is necessary to offset the costs of mitigating and restoring a basement flooded by heavy rain or a rising body of water. Rely on professionals to complete this cleanup job.

A Sewer Backup

Sewer backups are also not covered by standard homeowners policies. An additional sewer damage endorsement or rider can cover cleanup and restoration costs. Owners of homes that frequently experience backups may want to install a prevention valve.

These are four common scenarios that can cause a basement flood at a residence in Mesa Verde, CA Depending on the water source, homeowners insurance may or may not cover damage. Act quickly to mitigate primary damage and prevent secondary damage.