Home Improvement

You’ve just reached the tail end of a bad storm that damaged your property. After hours of heavy rains, high winds, and even potential evacuations, figuring out how and where to start putting things back together can be tricky.

And it’s all too tempting to start rushing through the items on your long to-do list, which likely includes cleaning out your flooded basement.

But tidying up the darkest room of your house after a major storm that included flooding is far from a simple task. It’s something that can be quite dangerous if not done correctly.

We spoke to plumbing and cleaning experts to find out the best way to tackle the job with minimal safety risks. So before you walk down those creaky steps, read these seven essential tips for safely cleaning out your basement after a flood.

1. Always put safety first

There are plenty of dangers potentially lurking in a flooded basement, including electric shock and gas leaks.

“Water and electricity are a dangerous combination,” says Matt Kunz, president of Mr. Rooter Plumbing. “Electrical outlets, wiring, and appliances submerged in water pose a significant risk.”

To ensure you are not in danger of electric shock, always turn the electricity off to the basement before stepping even a toe onto the damp floor.

While electricity is probably the most immediate threat to your safety, another potential risk is a gas leak. If you have gas appliances on your property and smell gas after a major storm or flooding event, evacuate your home immediately and call your gas company’s emergency line once you are safely away from the property.

2. Check for structural damage

Another danger in the aftermath of a flood is structural damage to your home.

“Flooding can weaken the structural integrity of your home, including the foundation and walls,” says Kunz. “Be cautious when reentering the basement, as it may be unsafe. Seek professional help for any extensive damage or structural repairs.”

You might not always be able to tell if your property has structural damage. But don’t stick around if you see something obvious—such as a lagging support beam or a ceiling that’s starting to look dangerously low. Call for help, and find a safe place to stay until a professional inspects the structure.

3. Get the right gear

If your home doesn’t pose any immediate threats, ensure you have the right gear to clean your basement.

“Floodwaters often carry contaminants such as sewage, chemicals, and bacteria,” says Kunz. “Wearing protective gear such as gloves, boots, goggles, and a mask is crucial.”

You can find a variety of personal protective equipment in flood cleanup kits online, or you may be able to find it locally in stores after a significant flooding event. Whatever you do, never enter potentially contaminated floodwaters without protection.

4. Increase visibility

Once you have some gear ready, ensure you’ll have a safe way to navigate your basement.

If you have a way to let more natural light into your basement via windows or doors, take this practical step for cleaning and your personal safety. If not, bring a sizeable battery-operated light (like a headlamp) to assess the damage.

“There’s a high risk when you’re in a dark basement you can cut yourself,” says Ronnie Kendrick of CompanyClean. “The last thing you want is contaminated water getting into it and causing an infection.”

5. Pump out the basement

If the water in your basement hasn’t dissipated, you might need professional help (or at least professional tools) to get the job done. If you suspect sewage is leaking into your basement, contact a professional right away.

“To avoid a health hazard, contact professional sewer and flood restoration technicians to repair damage to your septic tank or sewer outlet,” says Thomas Dougherty, vice president of operations for Benjamin Franklin Plumbing.

Otherwise, it’s time to fire up your sump pump. Just make sure you pipe the water far from your foundation.

6. Decide what’s worth saving

Once the water drains, you’re ready to sort through your belongings. The pros recommend using personal protective equipment here, including gloves, boots, and, depending on how well-ventilated your basement is, a mask.

“Furniture and belongings that have been submerged in floodwater can become contaminated and may need to be disposed of,” says Kunz. “Toss anything that came into contact with floodwater and can’t be cleaned.”

For organic items (think wood furniture) that might be prone to molding, take them outside to assess the damage. Try cleaning them with a good multisurface cleaner and leaving them in the sun or fresh air for a few days.

For things that can be easily replaced, don’t be afraid to toss them out. Take photos or keep a list of these damaged items if you plan to file an insurance claim.

7. Disinfect everything

Spend some time cleaning the basement itself.

“We recommend using a mixture of water and bleach or mild detergents,” says Kendrick. “This not only cleans but also disinfects the area. Special attention should be given to walls, floors, and any items that have come into contact with the water.”

Consider using a bristle brush or a power washer to get into hard-to-reach areas for any hard residues or buildup. Finish the job by ventilating your basement as much as possible, and consider running a dehumidifier or air purifier.