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A flooded basement is a surprise no homeowner wants to face. Aside from being a major inconvenience, it can also cause water damage and pose a safety hazard through mold growth. If you are faced with this issue, there are some steps you can take to minimize the damage. The professional plumbers at Service Plus in Canterbury, CT, offer the following tips on what to do immediately after discovering a flooded basement.

What Steps to Take After Finding a Flooded Basement

1. Put Safety First

Any homeowner’s top priority when dealing with a flooded basement should be safety. If the water level is higher than two inches, do not try to enter the basement, as you could experience an electrical shock. If possible, turn off power from the main electrical box. This reduces the risk of electrocution as the water rises and comes in contact with electrical appliances. If the water is starting to reach gas appliances—such as a water heater or furnace, contact the gas company immediately and ask them to shut off your supply.

2. Locate the Source & Minimize Damage

Flooded basementTry to locate the source of the leak, and see if there is anything you can do to stop it. If the water is coming from the floor drain, there could be a problem with your drainage system or a backup in the city sewer lines. In this case, you’ll need to call a plumber or the city water department to stop the leak.

Many times, the culprit of a flooded basement is water appliances such as a washing machine or water heater. If this is the case, immediately shut off the appliance and call a repair person to address the issue. Once the leak has been contained, try to remove as much water as possible. Open basement windows and leave the door open to provide air circulation and dry out the area.

3. Salvage Important Documents

Once it is safe to do so, try to salvage essential items in the basement. You should first locate important documents such as financial records, passports, and insurance papers. Saving these items will eliminate the hassle of trying to reproduce them after the flood. Plus, you may need to provide your insurance company with the documentation if you file a claim.

Dealing with a flooded basement can be frustrating, but there are some steps you can take to minimize the damage. By following the tips above, you can confidently address the issue and restore your basement. If you need a reliable plumber, look no further than Service Plus. This trusted team of professionals has over 25 years of experience providing unmatched service and a stellar reputation among its customers. Call them at (860) 234-9346, or visit them online for more information.

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