Flood cleanup and restoration after rising water

Not the materials floodwater soaked. Carpet, pad, drywall, insulation, and particleboard that sat in Category 3 water hold contamination that drying does not remove, so they are taken out. Tile, concrete block, the slab, and most solid wood framing can be cleaned, sanitized, and dried in place.

Above the highest point where our meters find moisture, not just above the visible stain, because drywall wicks water upward. The cut usually lands at a height that matches standard drywall sheets, which keeps the repair simpler. Where water wicked higher, the cut goes higher.

Wait until power to the flooded area is off and someone has checked for structural damage and gas leaks. Wear rubber boots and gloves, keep children and pets out, and do not touch electrical equipment that was under water. Have a licensed electrician inspect wet outlets, wiring, and appliances before they are used again.

If you carry a flood policy, it applies regardless of your zone; the zone affects whether a lender requires the policy and what it costs. Without one, rising water is usually excluded from homeowners coverage. New NFIP policies generally take effect after a 30-day waiting period, so a policy bought once a storm is forecast will not cover that storm.

Hard, non-porous items such as metal, glass, and sealed plastic can usually be cleaned and sanitized. Upholstered furniture, mattresses, pillows, and stuffed items that soaked in floodwater are generally discarded. Photograph and list everything before it goes to the curb, because flood contents claims are itemized.