Flood Cleanup Procedures

Photograph Damage

• Do not wait for insurance adjusters or government authorities to inspect damage before cleanup procedures begin. Take photographs or video to document the damage for claims.

Remove Furnishings and Belongings

• Furnishings and belongings need to be inspected to see what is salvage and what must be discarded. Anything that is salvageable needs to be moved to a location where it can be cleaned and allowed to properly dry. In the event of black water flooding, anything that is porous or if water was able to soak through, must be thrown away along with affected electronics and appliances.

Remove Flooring

• All flooring that has been covered in water will need to be removed. Carpet, carpet padding, linoleum and laminate floor products must be removed. Sub-floors constructed of plywood will need to be removed where black water was present.

Cut into Walls

• Look for the water line on all walls affected by flooding and mark a cutting line twelve inches above the water line. Cut away sheet rock from the cutting line to the floor, and remove all insulation behind the wall for disposal.

Structural Cleaning

• Once the lower walls and flooring have been removed, they will need to be scrubbed clean with a solution of bleach water or borax and water as effective disinfectants. Wash all areas that were wet and above the water line. Use a brush to scrub the disinfectant into corners and joints of the wall studs and exposed floor. Be extremely meticulous to remove the presence of any mold to prevent future growth. Bring in fans and open windows to aid in thoroughly drying out all areas and corners of the structure.

Safety Procedures

• In the event of black water or where clear water has been standing in warm environments, take certain safety precautions. Do not allow the water to come in contact with the skin, and especially any wounds. In addition to wearing rubber gloves, wear face masks to prevent inhaling mold and bacteria. Wear protective clothing and hats to be removed at the location, to prevent mold and bacteria from being spread into other clean environments.