FLOODED BASEMENT CLEANUP IN NEW LONDON

COMMON CAUSES OF BASEMENT FLOODING -- AND HOW TO HANDLE THEM

The contractors who built your home never planned it to be a damp, musty, or flooded space. Unfortunately, as the forces of nature continue to bear down on the structure, a leak is bound to happen.

Basement flooding can be solved quickly. This is provided you work with experienced contractors who use proven methods for flood damage restoration. When you turn to the team at ServiceMaster TRS - New London, trust that we will take care of it.

Are you looking for help with a flooded basement in your home? Reach out to our technicians at(860) 590-7717 or contactus online as soon as possible

WHAT DO YOU DO IF YOUR BASEMENT FLOODS?

A flooded basement in CT before flooded basement cleanup

First things first, you'll want to get a professional over to assess the damage and make repairs. Until then, here are a few things you can do before we arrive:

Turn off electricity and gas before entering your basement.
Try to find and stop the cause of your flooded basement. For instance, if a burst pipe is a cause, shut off the water to your basement.
Next, if your basement has one, you can use a sump pump to begin removing the water out of your basement. If you have a sump pump, it should be located in the lowest part of your basement. These pump the water out of your basement and send the water away from your home. You can also use a bucket to get water out.

These actions should help until we come over. You mustn't do anything else or try any DIY tips because doing so could lead to more damage and/or put your safety at risk.

Preventing Basement Flooding in New London

While we are here to help if your basement does flood, we also want to help you prevent it from happening in the first place.

Here are a few tips to keep your basement dry:

Regularly inspect and maintain your gutters and downspouts to ensure proper water flow away from your home.
Make sure your sump pump is in good working condition and has a backup battery in case of power outages.
Install a backflow valve to prevent sewage backups.
Seal any cracks or leaks in your foundation or basement walls.
Consider landscaping changes to redirect water away from your home.

By following these tips, you can reduce the risk of basement flooding in your New London home. However, if you do experience a flood, don't hesitate to call our experts at ServiceMaster TRS - New London for fast and effective basement flooding cleanup and repair.

BASEMENT FLOODING REPAIR IN NEW LONDON

Basement waterproofing is a much bigger industry than many homeowners realize! Because there are so many products, methods, and options when it comes to drying a basement, this is best done by a professional.

Likewise, it's a good idea to consult with a professional if your basement is experiencing severe flooding. The water in your basement is sometimes electrified, or contaminated, viruses, or bacteria.

A professional water damage restoration expert will have the training you need to ensure that your basement is pumped out safely. Also, your personal items will be protected and restored.

Our experts have the experience you need to ensure that your flooded basement is dried and treated for potential mold and humidity.

We Provide 24 Hour Emergency Service.Schedule a free estimate online or call(860) 590-7717

COMMON ISSUES WITH FLOODED BASEMENTS

Dealing with a flooded basement is a challenging and common issue that can manifest through various points of entry, such as floors, walls, and wall-floor joints. This flooding can also occur through openings like windows, hatchway entrances, and plumbing systems in your home. Effectively addressing a flooded basement hinges on identifying and rectifying the source of the problem. Fortunately, ServiceMaster TRS - New London experts are well-versed in determining the most effective solutions for flooded basements.

Common Issues with Flooded Basements:

Water ingress through the floor, saturating the foundation and posing structural risks.
Wall seepage, where water infiltrates through cracks or porous surfaces.
Vulnerable wall-floor joints, creating potential entry points for water infiltration.
Window leaks, allowing rain or external water sources to seep into the basement.
Hatchway entrance issues, leading to water pooling during heavy rainfall.
Plumbing failures, such as burst pipes or leaks, causing water damage.
Tailoring solutions based on the specific source of the flooding problem, ensuring a comprehensive and targeted approach.

If you find yourself grappling with a flooded basement, swift and targeted action is crucial. Contact ServiceMaster TRS - New London immediately for expert flooding repair services in New London and surrounding areas. Our experienced team is ready to address and resolve your flooded basement concerns promptly and effectively.

Will my homeowners insurance cover basement flooding?

Whether your homeowners insurance covers basement flooding depends on the cause of the flooding and the specific terms of your policy. Here’s a detailed look at how insurance typically handles basement flooding:

Covered Causes of Basement Flooding

Homeowners insurance policies generally cover water damage that results from sudden and accidental incidents, such as:

Burst Pipes: If a pipe bursts and floods your basement, this type of damage is usually covered.
Plumbing Failures: Sudden malfunctions of appliances or plumbing systems that result in water damage are often covered.
Accidental Overflows: Overflows from bathtubs, sinks, or washing machines due to malfunctions are typically covered.

Excluded Causes of Basement Flooding

Standard homeowners insurance policies usually exclude water damage from external sources or gradual leaks, including:

Flooding from Natural Disasters: Flooding caused by heavy rain, hurricanes, or overflowing rivers is typically not covered by standard homeowners insurance. For this type of flooding, you would need a separate flood insurance policy.
Sewer Backups: Damage from sewer or drain backups may not be covered unless you have a specific endorsement or rider added to your policy.
Groundwater Seepage: Water seeping into the basement due to poor drainage or foundation issues is generally not covered.

Flood Insurance

Flood insurance is a separate policy that covers damage caused by external flooding. This insurance is often required if you live in a flood-prone area and is available through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or private insurers. Flood insurance covers:

Damage to the structure of your home, including the foundation, electrical, and plumbing systems.
Personal property within your home, up to policy limits.

Additional Coverage Options

Some homeowners insurance policies offer additional endorsements or riders that can be purchased to cover specific types of water damage, such as:

Sewer Backup Coverage: This covers damage from sewer or drain backups and is typically available as an add-on to your standard policy.
Water Backup Coverage: This endorsement covers damage caused by water backup through sewers, drains, or sump pumps.

Preventive Measures and Maintenance

Insurance companies may deny claims if the flooding was due to lack of maintenance or negligence. It’s important to:

Regularly inspect and maintain your plumbing and drainage systems.
Install a sump pump with a battery backup to help prevent basement flooding.
Ensure proper grading around your home to direct water away from the foundation.
Clean and maintain gutters and downspouts to prevent water buildup.

Filing a Claim

If your basement floods, take the following steps to file a claim:

Document the Damage: Take photos and videos of the affected area and damaged items.
Contact Your Insurance Company: Notify your insurer as soon as possible to start the claims process.
Mitigate Further Damage: Take immediate steps to prevent further damage, such as removing standing water and moving valuables to a dry area.
Keep Records: Save all receipts for repairs, cleanup, and any temporary lodging if needed.