Basement Floods are a big deal in Connecticut. The majority of Connecticut homes have basements, many of which are used for more than just storage. If you have invested the time and money into converting your basement into a liveable space for you and your family, the last thing you want is to have all of your hard work destroyed by unexpected flooding.
How does basement flooding happen?
A variety of factors can lead to basement flooding and resulting water damage. Basements are actually more prone to flooding than any other room in the house, since many are below (or at least partially below) ground level.
Common causes of water in the basement include cracks in the foundation that allow groundwater to enter, plumbing leaks, storm damage, a backed-up sewer, sump pump issues, a hot water tank failure, broken appliances (such as a washing machine that overflows), and poorly sealed walls and floors.
Why should I worry about basement flooding?
In addition to ruining your furniture and personal belongings, water damage in the basement can be a safety hazard if it has reached any electrical wires or devices. Not only that, but if the problem is not addressed quickly or thoroughly enough, it could set the stage for potentially harmful mold growth.
Keep in mind that water damage in the basement can extend beyond the obvious visible damage. Even if the water is cleared away quickly, it may have seeped into and beneath the walls and floors, creating an ideal breeding ground for mold. If allowed to spread, mold can impact indoor air quality and may cause breathing problems and allergic reactions in some people.
What to do when your basement floods
Even though it may never happen while you reside in your home, it is still smart to have a plan in place for basement flooding. Here are some simple steps to follow:
- Be smart about safety. First things first, if you notice water in your basement, avoid walking on the floor until you are sure all electrical cords and outlets are secure. (You may need to turn off the electricity in order to fully assess the issue.)
- Locate the water source. Once it is safe to enter your basement and look around, try to identify the source of the water flow (for example, if it is a plumbing issue) and stop it if possible. Before you remove anything from the area, take several photos and video footage of the water damage to help if you need to file an insurance claim.
- The next step is to call a professional. While you might be tempted to tackle the problem on your own and remove the water in your basement using a wet-dry vac and some powerful fans, there is a good chance that mold growth has already started—and just tossing anything that got wet might not be enough to resolve the issue.
Mold can grow quickly, often within 24 to 48 hours after water damage has occurred. Working with a water damage restoration specialist ensures that not only is your immediate flooding issue resolved, but that your home is also protected against future damage caused by mold growth.
Contact CT Mold Pros and get the job done right.
When your basement floods, fast action is required. CT Mold Pros can address the issue quickly and efficiently to restore your water-damaged property back to its original state and ensure the health and safety of your family.
We specialize in water damage mitigation as well as the restoration process that follows. Our comprehensive assessment and treatment method includes identifying and neutralizing the water source, determining the full scope of the water damage, extracting the water, removing any damaged materials, and developing a restoration plan.
CT Mold Pros also provides insurance claim assistance for homeowners dealing with flooding or water damage in the basement and other areas. When you partner with us, a member of our team will work directly with your insurance company to determine your policy coverage and ensure a streamlined process. We have extensive experience communicating with insurance providers and adjusters, and we will work with you to file your claim and help you receive the compensation you deserve.
When every second counts, it’s important to work with a company you can trust. Call CT Mold Pros today at (203) 920-0265 for a free estimate or fill out this short form with your message to schedule an appointment with one of our trained and certified specialists.