Basement Flooding: Prevention & Action Guide for Kingsport

8/13/2015 (Permalink)

Too Much Water Means a Call for Help

Action Plan for a Kingsport Flooded Home

Basements are susceptible to floods at any time of the year which could cause water damage to your Kingsport home. However, a good percentage of flooding occurs during the spring as a result of snow-melt and spring storms. Flooding may also occur during dry seasons as a result of blockages in the sewer system around the home. The following are some basic facts every homeowner should know about basement flooding:

• Keep roof gutters and downspouts clean and direct rainwater at least six feet away from the house’s foundation.
• Purchase and install an automatic energy generator that will provide the house with continual energy during blackouts.
• Install a sump pump that activates automatically to prevent water from collecting in the home or basement.
• Use a sealant to close cracks in the walls, floor, windows, and foundation of the basement to help prevent water damage.
• A porous pavement should be installed around the home to assist with the percolation and drainage of rainwater and thawed snow.
• Regularly review your home drainage system and plumbing to ensure that it is functioning properly

Homeowners should not attempt a flood cleanup on their own. Therefore, have the number of a water damage specialist such as SERVPRO-on hand. While you are awaiting their arrival, do the following:

• Disconnect the home’s electrical power, if possible. Avoid walking through floodwater as this could lead to electrocution.
• Avoid contaminated floodwater. However, if special circumstances require you to come in contact with it, use protective gear.
• If a sump pump is installed, wait for it to drain the floodwater if electricity can be safely restored to the home.
Attempt to dry out water damaged  upholstery and furniture as soon as is feasible. If they are wet for more than 48 hours, they should be disposed of since a mold risk exists.

When a flood occurs, time is of the essence. The best way for you to determine the full extent of the damages caused by fire, smoke, mold, water, and other disasters is to contact the water damage experts at SERVPRO immediately.

Locally Owned and Operated

We are proud to be an active member of this community. SERVPRO of Kingsport/Bristol is locally owned and operated so we’re already nearby and ready to help Kingsport residents and business owners with any-sized flood and water damage emergencies.

Emergency Contact

The restoration process begins when you call us. Our consultant will guide you through the crisis and may ask several questions to help us better understand the equipment and resources that may be needed.  (423) 245-5552.