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Originally Posted On: https://www.jtmplumbingservice.com/post/what-to-do-when-your-home-floods
What To Do When Your Home Floods in 2024
There are certain precautions you can take to ensure the safety of both your family and your home in Omaha.
No matter how hard we try to prevent them, emergencies can still happen. So when your home is hit with a storm or a pipe breaks causing flooding, it’s important to be prepared. Nebraska can produce heavy storms that bring home damage via wind, hail, and floods. Although no two floods are the same, there are certain precautions you can take to ensure the safety of both your family and your home in Omaha.
Flooding in your home requires prompt and strategic action to minimize damage and ensure the safety of your loved ones. In this blog, we will outline the essential steps to take when facing a home flood, from immediate response measures to long-term recovery efforts. By following these carefully curated steps, you will be better equipped to handle the aftermath of a flood with efficiency and effectiveness.
Common Causes for Home Flooding
House flooding can occur due to a variety of reasons. Some common causes include:
Heavy Rainfall: Intense rain or storms can overwhelm drainage systems, leading to flooding in basements or low-lying areas.
Broken Pipes: Burst or leaking pipes, often due to freezing temperatures or wear and tear, can cause significant water damage inside the home.
Sump Pump Failure: Sump pumps are designed to remove excess water from basements. If they fail or become clogged, they can’t handle excess water, leading to flooding.
Blocked Drains: Clogged or blocked drains and gutters can prevent water from flowing away properly, causing it to back up and flood the home.
Foundation Issues: Cracks or defects in the foundation can allow groundwater to enter the home, particularly in basements or crawl spaces.
Plumbing Fixtures Malfunctions: Issues with toilets, sinks, or washing machines can lead to leaks or overflows that contribute to flooding.
Natural Disasters: Events like hurricanes, tornadoes, or floods can cause widespread damage and flooding to homes.
Addressing these issues promptly can help prevent and minimize damage.
Avoid Additional Risks After a Flooding in Your Home
If your home was flooded, and it was serious enough for you to leave, it is very important to be cautious upon returning to your home. Make sure you check for any visible signs of structural damage by looking for warping, loose or cracked elements of your foundation, cracks, or holes. If you suspect damage to gas, water, or sewage lines, contact your utility companies to report the damage.
In addition, make sure you come prepared with a working flashlight. Turn off all electrical and water sources inside your home, even if the power isn’t operational. This ensures that if the power is turned back on, you’re not at risk for mixing flood water and electricity.
Take Photos of the Flood Damage
Fully document all damage throughout your home by taking photos, and do this before removing water or making repairs. Having digital copies of your photos allows your insurance company to assess damage and ensures you’re properly covered.
Protect Your Health After a Home Flooding
Even though you may be concerned about getting your home in working order, make sure you take precautions to keep you and your family safe as well. The water in your home may be clear, but there is a chance it could be contaminated by sewage or household chemicals. If you want to enter a flooded portion of your home, it is recommended that you wear knee or waist-high waders, waterproof boots, and rubber gloves. Doing this will help you avoid contaminants in the water. FEMA also recommends boiling any water before use until authorities declare the water supply is safe to use again.
When Should I Call a Plumber for a Flooded Area in My Home?
You should call a plumber as soon as possible after your home or basement floods in Omaha or Gretna, NE. Here’s why:
- Immediate Response: Flooding can cause significant damage to plumbing systems and structures. An immediate response helps prevent further issues, such as mold growth or extensive water damage.
- Water Removal: A plumber can assess and assist with removing standing water, which is crucial to prevent damage to floors, walls, and electrical systems.
- System Inspection: Flooding can affect pipes, fixtures, and other components of your plumbing system. A plumber will inspect these systems to identify and address any damage or potential hazards.
- Insurance Claims: Contacting a professional early on helps document the damage, which can be important for insurance claims and repairs.
- Prevention: A plumber can also provide advice on preventing future flooding and address any underlying issues that may have contributed to the problem.
The sooner you call, the better the chances of minimizing damage and ensuring a quicker recovery.
Home Flooding Prevention Tips
- Keep gutters and downspouts clean to prevent water from overflowing and seeping into your home.
- Install a sump pump in your basement or crawlspace to remove excess water during heavy rains.
- Make sure the grading around your home slopes away from the foundation to prevent water accumulation.
These simple tips can help reduce the risk of flooding in your home. By taking preventive measures, you can help protect your property and avoid costly damages that come with unexpected floods. It’s always better to be prepared than dealing with the aftermath of a flooded home.
Call The Professionals at JTM Plumbing & Drain
If you ever find yourself with a flooded basement due to a cracked pipe or broken plumbing, call the professionals at JTM Plumbing & Drain. Our team is ready to provide prompt and reliable plumbing services to help you get your home back to normal in the Gretna and Omaha, NE area. With over 20 years of experience, you can trust JTM Plumbing & Drain to handle the situation with expertise and efficiency, ensuring that your home is protected from further damage. Let us help you fix the problem and make it as good as new. Contact us now and we will take care of the rest!
