Emergency Guide: What to Do if Your Basement Floods

Step 1: Ensure Personal Safety

• Avoid entering a flooded basement if water levels are high.

• Turn off power at the switchboard if it is safe to do so.

• Never enter standing water until electricity is confirmed off.

• Keep children and pets away from the flooded area.

• Flood water can often be contaminated, ensure that you are wearing appropriate protection such as rubber boots, gloves and protective clothing.

Step 2: Identify the Source of Flooding

• Check if the water is from heavy rain, a burst pipe, groundwater seepage, or sewer backup.

• If a burst pipe is suspected, shut off the water supply immediately.

• If external flooding is the cause, avoid entering the basement until water levels recede.

• As above, wear appropriate protective clothing to reduce the risk of contact with contaminated water.

Step 3: Contact Your Insurance Provider

• Notify your insurer as soon as possible to start the claims process.

• Take clear photos and videos of all damage and each stage of the clean up.

• List all affected items and save receipts for any emergency repairs.

• Record all communications with your insurance provider.

• Do not dispose of damaged items until an insurance assessor has inspected them.

Step 4: Remove Water Safely

• Use a submersible pump rated for dirty water. We recommend you seek professional assistance

• Remove water in small increments to help minimise structural damage.

• Never use household vacuum cleaners to remove water, they are not designed for this purpose and pose a high safety risk.

• Open windows and doors for ventilation.

• Contact a professional like Fix My Leaky Basement for professional water extraction and drying solutions.

Step 5: Begin the Drying and Cleaning Process

• Move furniture and belongings to a dry area.

• Clean and disinfect all surfaces to prevent mould growth.

• Remove wet insulation and any damaged materials.

• Use industrial fans and dehumidifiers to dry the space thoroughly.

• Fix My Leaky Basement provides professional drying and dehumidification services to ensure a complete restoration

Step 6: Check Electrical & Plumbing Systems

• Do not turn on power until a licensed electrician has inspected the system.

• Have a plumber assess and repair any damaged pipes or drainage systems.

• If sewage backup occurred, specialist cleaning and sanitation are required.

Step 7: Prevent Future Flooding

• Ensure a fit-for-purpose drainage system is installed and maintain gutters regularly.

• Ensure the ground slopes away from your home’s foundation.

• If flooding is a regular occurence for your area, consider installing a backup sump pump for additional protection.

• Fix My Leaky Basement offers free site assessments to identify potential and existing issues and waterproofing solutions, including the Hydrobond system, to keep your basement dry long-term.