Flooded basement: Next steps to take
When your home is hit by floods, the damage can be extensive and potentially dangerous. For affected residents, it's crucial to maintain a calm demeanor and make mindful decisions. To prevent further harm, follow these four steps:
German weather services had predicted stormy rain and imminent flooding. If your basement floods due to overflowing rivers or the predicted scenario, swift action is necessary. The longer the water remains in the basement, the worse the damage could get. However, remember that the water itself poses a threat to life. Under no circumstances should you enter the cellar or any other flooded areas until the power has been turned off.
- Shut off the power
According to the Central Association of German Electrical and Information Technology Trades (ZVEH), entering flooded areas with the power on could lead to fatal electric shocks if the fuse box and electrical appliances are submerged. Before entering any flooded rooms, you must ensure the electrical system is turned off. If you're unable to reach the main distribution board, which is likely located in the flooded cellar, contact your energy supplier.
Using a water pump or electric dehumidifier before turning off the power could also be life-threatening, warns the ZVEH. Only a specialist can safely check the wiring and make any necessary repairs.
- Evaluate hazardous substances
The next task is not to pump water out or clean it up. Before engaging in these activities, verify if any hazardous substances like heating oil have leaked. If so, contact the fire department for assistance, as advised by the Federal Office for Civil Protection and Disaster Relief (BBK).
- Inform your insurer and document damage
The next step is to take photos of the damage and report it to your insurance company as soon as possible. The German Insurance Association recommends doing this immediately to facilitate the claims process.
If hired tradespeople are involved in the repair process without consulting your insurer first, you could lose your insurance coverage. However, it's also essential to take measures to prevent further damage. Water should be pumped out and items removed from the moisture as quickly as possible.
Flood damage is typically covered by the homeowner's insurance policy if a natural hazard insurance policy was taken out. This natural hazard insurance is an additional policy required alongside other policies. The homeowner's insurance then assumes responsibility for damages to the building. Meanwhile, household contents insurance covers items inside the property that were damaged by the flood.
Now, it's time to begin the water pumping and drying process using appropriate equipment. While pumping water is not the first step in managing floods, it's essential to act quickly. The sooner rooms are dried out, the easier it is to prevent significant building damage and the onset of mold, the BBK explains.
There is a caveat to this: Emergency experts suggest waiting until the groundwater level has dropped significantly before starting to pump. Pumping too early could damage your house's foundation. Local authorities can provide insight into when this is safe.
You can borrow drying equipment from building markets, but whether or not professional help is needed for drying and renovation depends on the flood's strength and your house's building materials. In most cases, a specialist should examine anything that could absorb water, such as walls or insulation. Moreover, only a specialist can safely release the electrical system for use again.
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Consumers should contact their insurance advisor to discuss their flooded basement situation, as insurance policies may cover damages caused by natural disasters. In the aftermath of a storm that led to flooding, some consumers living in apartments with flooded basements might need to rely on their insurances for assistance.
Finding a reliable cleaning and restoration company is essential for consumers who wish to expedite the process of drying out their flooded apartment. During times when storms and flooding are predicted, consumers can seek advice from their insurance advisors regarding potential coverage and steps to take if their apartment is affected.
