Your House Is Flooded — Now What?

Coming home to a flood is overwhelming. This plan walks you through what to do next, one step at a time.

Safety First

Before you start any cleanup, make sure the house is safe. If floodwater rose above the electrical outlets, or the outlets went under, there’s a real risk of electrocution. Shut off power at the breaker box before you go in, or call an electrician if you’re not comfortable doing it. Watch for animals and insects, and look for mold and mildew. Wear gloves, a mask and eye protection.

Cleaning Up the Damage

• Remove standing water with a wet/dry vacuum or mop. Dispose of any sewage-contaminated water the way your local health department advises.
• Dry the house out. Open the windows and doors and run fans and the air conditioning. Renting a dehumidifier speeds things up.
• Clean and disinfect every affected surface. Wash contaminated clothing and bedding in hot water, more than once if needed. Carpet and draperies often need to be replaced. If they can be saved, dry them completely before you put them back.
• Check for structural damage, and talk to a professional before you try any repairs.

Insurance and Recovery

Call your homeowner’s insurance company promptly. Most policies cover certain water damage, but flood coverage often requires a separate rider. Know what you have before you need it.

You don’t have to handle it alone. Doan Restoration of Michigan responds 24/7/365 with extraction, drying and direct insurance billing. Call (586) 842-8142 or request a free estimate.