Basement Flooding in Illinois: What to Do Immediately After Water Damage

What to Do When Your Basement Floods

A flooded basement can become a serious problem quickly. Whether the water comes from heavy rain, a failed sump pump, a burst pipe, or another unexpected issue, acting quickly can help limit damage to your home.

If you're dealing with basement flooding in the Chicagoland area, here are the steps you should take after discovering water in your basement.

1. Make Sure the Area Is Safe

Before entering a flooded basement, check for possible electrical hazards, sewage contamination, or structural damage. Never enter standing water if there is a possibility that electricity is present.

If the flooding involves sewage or potentially contaminated water, avoid direct contact with the water and affected materials.

2. Stop the Source of the Water

If a leaking or burst pipe is causing the flooding and you can safely access your home's main water shutoff, turn the water off.

For flooding caused by heavy rain, groundwater, or a failed sump pump, stopping the source may not be possible. In these situations, removing the standing water as quickly as possible becomes especially important.

3. Document the Water Damage

Before moving or throwing away damaged belongings, take photos and videos of the affected areas.

Document standing water, damaged flooring, drywall, furniture, personal belongings, and the apparent source of the water. This documentation may be helpful when communicating with your insurance company.

4. Remove Standing Water Quickly

Standing water should not be left in a basement longer than necessary.

Professional water removal involves more than simply getting rid of the water you can see. Moisture can travel underneath flooring, behind baseboards, into drywall, and into other building materials.

Professional water extraction equipment can remove standing water while specialized drying equipment helps address moisture remaining in the structure.

5. Properly Dry the Basement

A basement can appear dry even when moisture is still trapped inside walls, floors, and other materials.

Professional restoration companies use equipment such as air movers, dehumidifiers, and moisture meters to help locate moisture and properly dry affected areas.

Proper structural drying can help prevent additional damage after a basement flood.

6. Watch for Hidden Water Damage

Some water damage isn't immediately visible.

Moisture can remain behind walls, underneath flooring, around insulation, and inside other building materials after the visible water has been removed.

If you're unsure how far the water traveled, a professional water damage inspection can help determine which areas were affected.

7. Call a Local Water Damage Restoration Company

When significant flooding occurs, getting professional help quickly can make the cleanup and drying process much easier.

Water Damage Pros provides emergency water removal, flood damage cleanup, structural drying, sewage cleanup, and water damage restoration throughout the Chicagoland area.

If your basement has flooded or your property has experienced unexpected water damage, contact Water Damage Pros for help assessing the damage and beginning the cleanup and drying process.