What to Do if Your House Floods: A Step-by-Step Emergency Guide

You wake up to the sound of water rushing and find your house flooding. It’s every homeowner’s worst nightmare but being prepared can make all the difference. If you’re in Wisconsin and find yourself in this situation, knowing the best cash home buyers in Wisconsin could be your lifesaver. But first, let’s go through what to do when your house floods.

Emergency Response to a Flooded House

When water starts coming into your house, your first move is key. Here’s what to do right away:

1. Stay safe: Your safety and your family’s safety come first. Watch out for anything that could hurt you like loose wires or weak floors. Flood waters can be contaminated with sewage and chemicals, so wear protective gear when handling water-damaged possessions. If you’re in a disaster area follow instructions from local officials.
2. Cut the power: Turn off your electricity at the main breaker or fuse box. Water and electricity don’t mix so this step is important to minimize damage and protect yourself from electrical hazards.
3. Stop the water: If you can, turn off the main water supply to your house. This might not help if the flood is from outside but it’s worth a shot to prevent further damage from burst pipes.
4. Call for help: Call your local emergency services. They can tell you what to do next and send help if you’re in danger. If you’re in a life-threatening situation don’t hesitate to call 911.
5. Get out if you have to: If things look really bad don’t try to be a hero. Get yourself and your loved ones to higher ground or a safe place. If you have time grab essential items like medications, important documents, and a change of clothes.
6. Check on neighbors: If it’s safe to do so check on your neighbors especially the elderly or those with mobility issues. They may need help evacuating or contacting emergency services.

Remember your life and your family’s life is more valuable than anything in your house. Don’t take unnecessary risks.

1. Stop the Water at Its Source 

If your house floods, the first step is to identify and stop the water source if possible. This can vary depending on the cause of flooding:

• For burst pipes or malfunctioning appliances: Locate the main water valve and turn it off immediately to prevent further damage. If you’re unsure where the valve is, check your home’s plumbing system or consult your home’s manual.
• When fixing water damage from a roof leak: While you can’t turn off rain, you can take immediate steps to minimize water entry. Place buckets under active leaks and use tarps to cover damaged roof areas if it’s safe.
• For natural disasters like hurricanes or heavy rainfall: It may not be possible to stop the water at its source. In this case, focus on safety and evacuation.

Remember, your safety is paramount. Don’t risk injury trying to stop water in dangerous conditions.

2. Evacuate the Premises 

Whether you’re dealing with a major flood or fixing water damage from a roof leak, it’s crucial to assess whether it’s safe to stay in your home. If there’s significant water or any risk to your safety, evacuate the premises immediately. Here’s what to do:

• Move to higher ground or a safe location, such as a friend’s home or a temporary shelter.
• If you’re in a life-threatening situation, call 911 or your local emergency number.
• Take essential items with you, including:
  • Medications
  • Important documents (in waterproof containers)
  • Change of clothes
  • Phone and charger
  • Some food and water

Even if the flooding seems minor, such as from a small roof leak, be prepared to leave if the situation worsens or if fixing water damage from a roof leak becomes more complicated than anticipated. Water damage can escalate quickly, potentially affecting electrical systems or compromising structural integrity.

Remember, material possessions can be replaced, but your safety and that of your loved ones should always be the top priority when facing any type of flooding situation.

Damage Assessment and Help

Once you’re safe and the immediate danger has passed it’s time to figure out how bad it is:

1. Take pictures and videos: Use your phone to take pictures and videos of everything. This will be super helpful when you talk to your insurance company later. Make sure to document the water level at its highest point.
2. Look for big problems: Check if your walls are cracking, floors are uneven, or your roof is sagging. These could mean serious structural damage to your house. Don’t forget to check your sewer lines for backup or damage.
3. Call your insurance: Get in touch with your insurance company as soon as possible. Tell them what happened and ask what to do next. Be prepared to give them detailed information about the damage. Thorough documentation is crucial, especially if extensive repairs are needed.
4. Think about hiring pros: Cleaning up after a flood is a big job. You may want to hire a company that specializes in water damage restoration. They can help dry things, clean up properly, and prevent mold growth.
5. Contact FEMA: If your area has been declared a federal disaster area you may be eligible for assistance. Contact FEMA at 1-800-621-3362 to report your situation and potentially get free help.
6. Consider temporary housing: If your house is uninhabitable look into temporary housing options. This could be a hotel, a rental property, or staying with family or friends. 

Document Everything

After a flood, it’s essential to document everything for insurance purposes and to track the recovery process. Take photos and videos of the damage, including standing water, furniture, and structural damage. Make a list of damaged items, including their value and condition before the flood. Keep receipts for any expenses related to the cleanup and recovery process. This documentation will help you prove the extent of the damage to your insurance company and ensure you receive fair compensation.

Safety Precautions After a Flood

When you go back into your flooded house you need to be extra careful. Following a thorough cleanup process is crucial to ensure safety and prevent further damage:

1. Suit up: Wear rubber boots, gloves, and a face mask. Floodwater can be contaminated with sewage or other hazards. Protect yourself from potential health risks.
2. Don’t wade through water: Standing water can hide dangers like sharp objects or even live wires. If you must go through water use a stick to check the ground in front of you.
3. Air it out: Open up all the windows and doors you can. This lets fresh air in and helps dry things out faster. If you have access to fans or dehumidifiers use them to speed up the drying process.
4. Be careful with electricity: Don’t turn on any appliances that get wet until an electrician says it’s okay. Water and electrical systems can be a deadly mix. If you smell gas or suspect a leak, leave immediately and call your gas company.
5. Watch for mold: Mold can start growing within 24-48 hours of flooding. Keep an eye out for any signs of mold growth and address it quickly.
6. Beware of wildlife: Floods can displace animals. Be cautious of snakes, rodents, or other wildlife that may have sought shelter in your home.

Turn Off the Electricity

If your house floods, it’s crucial to turn off the electricity to prevent electrical shock or fires. If the power is still on, turn off the main electrical switch or circuit breaker. If you’re not sure how to do this, consult your home’s electrical system or contact a licensed electrician. Avoid walking through standing water to reach the electrical panel, as this can be dangerous.

Flood Insurance and Claims

Dealing with insurance after a flood can be a nightmare. Here’s how to handle it:

1. Know your policy: Take a good look at your flood insurance policy. What does it cover and what doesn’t? Standard homeowners insurance doesn’t cover flood damage so you may need a separate flood insurance policy.
2. Start your claim: Call your insurance company right away to report the flood damage and begin the claims process. Ask them what info they need from you and what you should do next.
3. Keep records: Write down every time you talk to your insurance company. Note the date, time, and what you talked about. This documentation can be key if there’s a dispute later.
4. Document everything: In addition to photos and videos, keep a detailed list of all damaged items. Include descriptions, approximate value, and receipts if you have them.
5. Wait for the adjuster: Your insurance company will send an adjuster to assess the damage. Be present during this inspection and point out all areas of concern.
6. Get multiple estimates: For repairs get estimates from several contractors. This will help you get a fair deal and can be useful in negotiations with your insurance company.
7. Consider getting help: If dealing with insurance is too much to handle you may want to hire a public adjuster. They can help you navigate the claims process and get a better settlement.

Remember insurance companies can be slow. If you need to sell your house fast in Waukesha or anywhere else in Wisconsin you may want to look into other options, like cash home buyers who specialize in flood-damaged properties.

Recovery and Restoration

Cleanup and Disinfection

Getting your house clean and dry is super important to prevent long-term damage and health risks. The cleanup process involves removing water, salvaging items, drying the space, and disinfecting affected areas:

1. Remove standing water: Use pumps, wet vacuums, or buckets to get standing water out of your house as quickly as possible. The longer water sits the more damage it can do.
2. Remove wet items: Take out any wet carpeting, furniture, and other items. Some things may be salvageable if dried quickly while others may need to be discarded.
3. Dry things out: Use fans, dehumidifiers, and open windows to dry everything as fast as you can. This stops mold growth. Pay special attention to wood, drywall, and insulation.
4. Clean and disinfect: Mix a bleach solution (1 cup of bleach to 1 gallon of water) to clean all surfaces in your flooded areas. This kills germs and prevents mold. Don’t forget to clean walls, floors, and any salvageable furniture.
5. Deal with appliances: Have a professional check any appliances that were submerged before using them again. Some may be salvageable while others may need to be replaced.
6. Watch for mold: Even after cleaning keep an eye out for any signs of mold growth. If you see any, address it immediately or call in a professional.
7. Stay protected: Always wear protective equipment, like gloves, boots, and a mask, when cleaning up after a flood. The water could be contaminated with sewage or other hazards.

Rebuild and Repair

Once everything is clean and dry it’s time to fix things up. In severe damage, extensive repairs may be necessary, which can take significantly longer and incur much higher expenses. It is crucial to thoroughly document the damage and maintain timely communication with insurance representatives:

1. Assess the damage: Determine what needs to be repaired or replaced. This may include drywall, insulation, flooring, and even structural elements.
2. Find a good contractor: Look for a reputable contractor who has experience with flood damage repair. Ask for referrals, check reviews, and verify licenses and insurance.
3. Get permits: Check with your local building department about permits needed for repairs. Skipping this step will cause problems later.
4. Think about the future: When fixing things, consider ways to protect your house from future floods. This may include:

• Installing sump pumps with battery backups
• Elevating electrical systems and appliances
• Using water-resistant building materials
• Improving your property’s drainage

5. Keep your receipts: Save every receipt for repairs or new items you buy. You may need these for insurance claims, taxes, or future home sales.
6. Be patient: Fixing up a flooded house takes time. Don’t rush the process or settle for quick fixes that cause problems later. It’s better to do it right the first time.
7. Consider professional cleaning: Even after the initial cleanup, you may want to hire professional cleaners to do a thorough job, especially for things like air ducts that may have been contaminated.

Prevention and Preparedness

Flooding can be devastating, but there are steps you can take to prevent and prepare for a flood.

Preparing for a Natural Disaster

If you live in an area prone to natural disasters, such as hurricanes or heavy rainfall, it’s essential to prepare for a flood. Here are some steps you can take:

• Check your flood insurance policy to ensure you have adequate coverage.
• Install a sump pump and backup power source to prevent water accumulation in your home.
• Keep your home’s gutters clean and clear to ensure proper water flow.
• Trim trees and shrubs to prevent branches from damaging your home.
• Consider installing a flood-control system or elevating your home to prevent flood damage.
• Create a flood emergency plan, including evacuation routes and emergency contact information.
• Keep a flood emergency kit, including essential items such as food, water, and a first aid kit.

By taking these steps, you can reduce the risk of flood damage and ensure your safety and the safety of your loved ones.

Additional Resources and Help

Flooded house? You’re not alone:

1. Government help: In addition to FEMA check with state and local government agencies for available programs.
2. Non-profits: Many non-profits offer help after natural disasters. The Red Cross for example often provides emergency shelter and supplies.
3. Legal help: If you’re having trouble with insurance claims or contractor issues look for local legal aid societies that offer free or low-cost help.
4. Mental health help: Don’t underestimate the emotional impact of a flood. Look for local support groups or counseling services if you’re feeling overwhelmed.
5. Financial help: If the flood has caused financial strain, consider seeking advice from a financial counselor to help with recovery.
6. Community resources: Check with local churches, community centers, and volunteer organizations. Many offer support services after disasters.
7. Online forums and support groups: Connect with others who have gone through similar experiences. They can offer advice, support, and understanding.

A roof leak may seem like a small problem compared to a full flood but it’s just as important to address quickly. Whether you’re dealing with a big flood or a small leak the key is to act fast and get help when you need it.

If you’re in Wisconsin and all this seems too much to handle, remember there are companies that buy houses in Fox Point and other areas no matter what condition they’re in. Sometimes selling your flooded house to a cash buyer and starting fresh is less stressful than going through the long repair process.

When deciding to sell a house as is or fix it up after a flood consider the extent of the damage, your financial situation, and your emotional attachment to the home. Fixing up can potentially get you a higher sale price but selling as-is to a cash buyer can be a quicker, hassle-free solution.

In the end, dealing with a flooded house is a big deal. But with the right steps and support you can get through it. Stay safe, act fast, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Whether you decide to repair and rebuild or sell and move on there are options to help you get back on your feet.

If you’re looking to sell your house fast in Waukesha or anywhere in Wisconsin companies like Cream City Home Buyers buy homes in any condition including those damaged by floods. They can often provide a quick cash offer with no repairs or real estate commissions which can be a big relief when dealing with flood recovery.

Always prioritize your safety and your family’s safety during this process. With time, patience, and the right support you can get through a flooded home and move on to better days.