3 Steps for Cleaning Under Your House After a Flood

10/21/2020 (Permalink)

Protect yourself from future headaches by inspecting your crawlspace

How To Avoid Further Storm Damage

When you're cleaning up after a home flood in Homestead, FL, you may not give much thought to the spaces beneath your home — but you should. If you have a crawlspace, you should take as much time to clean it as you do other areas of your home. Mold can grow there and cause structural damage to your house. If you have discovered standing water in a crawlspace, there are a few things that you can do to avoid further storm damage.

1. Remove Standing Water
Whether there is a little or a lot, it is important to remove any standing water from a crawlspace as soon as possible. If you can safely do so, use a pump to clear water out of the area. Pumps are the most efficient option if you have had a home flood. For small amounts of water, it may be possible to use a shop vac, a broom, or even a few towels to soak it up.

2. Toss Ruined Objects
Anything that is stored in the crawlspace or that was a part of it, including insulation, should be removed and evaluated. If it can't be dried out, is damaged, or has mold growing on it, throw it away. Take photos of everything for your insurance company.

3. Dry Everything Well
Once all of the water and your belongings are out of the way, you can plug in a fan to help dry out the area. It will also be wise to use a dehumidifier to help with restoring any wood framing.

4. Consult the Pros
During the cleanup process, it's a good idea to call a water damage restoration company to assess your crawlspace and ensure that everything has been taken care of correctly. You should also check with your insurance company to see if they recommend adding any pumps or vents to prevent future flooding.
When it comes to a home flood, forget about "Out of sight, out of mind." Protect yourself from future headaches by inspecting your crawlspace and cleaning it promptly after flooding.