What to Do If Your Home Floods

A flooded home is one of the most stressful situations you can face as a homeowner. Whether it’s from a sump pump failure, a burst pipe, heavy rains, or a sewer backup, flooding happens fast, and knowing what to do can make a big difference in how much damage you’re dealing with.

Put Safety First

Before you think about cleanup, make sure the area is safe to enter. If water is rising or you suspect electrical hazards, don’t step into standing water.

• If possible, turn off electricity in the affected area, but don’t touch the panel if it’s already wet.
• Avoid using appliances or outlets that may have been exposed to water.
• If the flooding involves sewage, treat the area like a health hazard and keep kids and pets away.

Stop the Source of the Water

If the flooding is coming from inside your home, like a burst pipe or leaking water heater, turn off the home’s main water supply valve right away.

If the flooding is from natural causes, like heavy rain, or because of a sump pump failure, preventing more water from coming in may not be possible. In that case, move on to protecting your belongings.

Protect What You Can

Once it’s safe enough, try to minimize damage:

• Move furniture and valuables to a dry area or elevate them.
• Remove area rugs, boxes, or items that absorb water.
• If water is still entering the home, create a path for it to drain where possible.

Document the Damage

Before you start large-scale cleanup, take pictures of everything affected. Your insurance company will want a clear record of the damage, and having those pictures will make the claims process much smoother.

Start Removing Water and Drying Out

The sooner you get water out, the better. But depending on how much water is in your home, you may not have the equipment to handle it yourself.

If it’s a minor leak, you might be able to mop up or use a wet/dry vacuum. But for several inches or more, you’ll need professionals with pumps, industrial fans, and dehumidifiers. Fast drying is important because mold can start growing in as little as 24 to 48 hours.

Call a Licensed Plumber If the Flooding Is Plumbing-Related

If your flood came from a failed sump pump, a burst pipe, a clogged sewer line, or any other plumbing problem, bring in Elk Grove Village Sewer & Plumbing as soon as possible.

Dealing With a Flood? Elk Grove Village Sewer & Plumbing Can Help

If your home has flooded or you’re worried it might, you don’t have to handle the aftermath alone. We can identify the source, make the necessary repairs, and help prevent future flooding. Contact us today for fast, reliable service and a quote.