My Basement Is Flooded Due to Rain: What Can I Do?

Remove Water

• The first step in cleaning up after rain has flooded your basement is to get rid of the water. If it isn't too deep, you can usually suck up the water with a wet-dry shop vacuum. You need to empty the vacuum manually, though, so don't suck up too much water at once, or the vac will be too heavy to lift. Make sure that you remove all of the water, taking care along the baseboards in a finished basement and behind furniture and other large items.

Dry the Space

• To prevent mold growth and additional moisture damage, you must dry out your basement as quickly as possible. Dehumidifiers are your best option, because they remove moisture from the air as well as the walls, carpet and other items. If you have a large flood, consider renting industrial-strength dehumidifiers from a restoration company. Have several running at once for several days. If your basement has air conditioning, turn it on, because it acts a dehumidifier as well. Set up several fans to keep the air moving to dry the space out more quickly. If it is humid outside, leave the basement windows closed. However, if the exterior air is dry, you can open the windows to help move the air. Depending on the severity of the flood, it may take as long as two weeks for the basement to fully dry out, so you should leave the dehumidifiers and fans running to move the process along.

Disinfect the Area

• While a rainwater flood isn't as dangerous as one due to sewage backup, there may dirt, debris and other contaminants in the water that pose health risks. When the basement is dry, disinfect all areas and items that were exposed to the floodwater. Dilute chlorine bleach with water to create a disinfecting wash, and use a sponge to apply it to all surfaces. Rinse the bleach mixture off, and let the basement air-dry once again.

Hire Professionals

• If you have a very deep flood to deal with, it might be nearly impossible to clear out the water yourself. Instead, contact a restoration company, which helps restore homes that have suffered flood, fire and other serious damage. These companies have heavy-duty equipment that can remove the water and dry out your basement as quickly as possible. If you have a finished basement, and there has been damage to the floor, walls or other areas, a restoration company can also replace or repair these items.

Call Your Insurance Company

• Depending on the type of homeowner's insurance policy that you have, you may be covered for water damage in your home. Call your insurance company to find out the details of your policy. If you are covered, the insurance company will likely send an agent to examine your basement and determine the extent of the damage before they process the claim.