A flood in your basement, whether from a burst pipe, heavy rain, sewer backup, faulty appliance, or floodwaters, is a huge pain, regardless of the severity.
\r\n\r\nStatistics show that more than 14,000 people experience a water disaster of some kind every day.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nThe fallout and cleanup involved with a basement flood doesn't have to be overly stressful, and Hometown is here to help.
\r\n
In this guide, we'll outline the steps you should take to protect your property, and thereby yourself, by getting things dried out, cleaned up, and back to normal as soon as possible.
\r\n\r\n![\"basement](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/basement-flood-cleanup-infographic.png\")
\r\nRegardless of the cause of your basement flood, your first question will likely be, \"What do I do now?\"
\r\n\r\nThe first step is to make sure you and any other residents are not putting yourselves at risk.
\r\n\r\nWhenever entering a flooded home or area, be sure you're wearing protective clothing, like rubber boots and gloves.
\r\n\r\nWading through dirty water or touching items that have come into contact with flood water can expose you to pollutants, like bacteria, mold, chemicals, etc.
\r\n\r\nIn cases of more extreme flooding, make sure the house is safe to enter first.
\r\n\r\nKeep an eye out for telltale signs of structural damage, like buckling floors or walls or warped or cracked foundations.
\r\n\r\nWe also recommend taking photos and video of the damage and documenting cleanup efforts in case you need to submit them to your insurer.
\r\n\r\nAdequate documentation will allow the insurance adjuster to accurately assess the damage and your loss.
\r\n\r\nImmediately contact your utility companies if you suspect any damage has occurred to water, gas, electric, or sewer lines.
\r\n\r\nSafety is always more important than salvaging household items, so be wise as you assess the structural integrity of your property.
\r\n\r\nEven a small amount of water can cause an electrocution hazard in your home, so we recommend cutting the power to your home to mitigate your risk, even if there is a widespread power outage.
\r\n\r\nLocate your electrical panel and turn off the main breaker and each fuse switch.
\r\n\r\nLikewise, unplug appliances, equipment, or machinery if they are at risk and prop them up on blocks to keep them out of rising water whenever possible.
\r\n\r\nA backup generator can be a huge asset during floods because they allow for an electric sump pump, water vacuums, fans, and lights to run without putting yourself at risk of electrocution.
\r\n\r\nWe also advise shutting off your gas or reaching out to your gas company to do it for you if your home uses natural gas.
\r\n\r\nIf your home experiences serious flooding, a qualified electrician will need to inspect, clean, and dry the power box before you can turn the power on again.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nOnce you're sure your safety is not at risk, the next thing you need to do is stop the water from rising if possible.
\r\n\r\nIf a pipe has burst or a broken appliance is leaking, turn off the water supply to your home immediately.
\r\n\r\nIf your home is flooding due to a storm or natural disaster, call your city to make sure the storm drains are open and cleaned out to ensure the water recedes as quickly as possible.
\r\n\r\n![\"water](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/basement-water-seepage.png\")
\r\nYour homeowner's insurance may be able to help pay for flood damage remediation and repairs if it's included in your policy.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nInsurance companies classify water damage differently and are typically very strict about what they will and won't cover.
\r\n
In many cases, water damage is preventable with adequate home maintenance.
\r\n\r\nBecause of this, insurance providers only cover very specific circumstances.
\r\n\r\nThe most common types of coverage include:
\r\n\r\nFlood damage is not covered in your standard homeowner's insurance policy, but a separate policy can be purchased from government-backed National Flood Insurance Program.
\r\n\r\nIf you live in a Special Flood Hazard Area, you can buy a policy through a private insurer in order to meet your mortgage requirements and federal mandates.
\r\n\r\nHowever, surface water, like rain, rivers, lakes, or oceans overflowing, is excluded.
\r\n\r\nDamage from your pipes bursting is typically covered in a standard homeowner's policy.
\r\n\r\nHowever, if your pipes are slowly leaking over a longer period of time, this damage is excluded.
\r\n\r\nA home insurance policy typically includes water overflow under the water damage clause, but you will need to add water backup coverage.
\r\n\r\nWater Backup Coverage includes the backup of water from a drain, pipe, or sump pump.
\r\n\r\nWater overflow water is usually clear and relatively clean because it's never entered the plumbing system.
\r\n\r\nWater backup water is often dark brown or black and grainy because it comes from deeper within the plumbing system.
\r\n\r\nYou can generally purchase water backup coverage as an add-on coverage when you first purchase your policy in increments of $5,000 of protection.
\r\n\r\nWater damage caused by a storm is likely covered by your standard homeowners policy if the water enters from above ground level.
\r\n\r\nGroundwater seepage is not covered in a standard homeowner's policy.
\r\n\r\nWater seepage is when water seeps into your home via porous material or tiny holes due to groundwater levels rising or excess water in the soil causing hydrostatic pressure against your home's foundation.
\r\n\r\nFollow all the instructions laid out by your insurance company when it comes to the clean up and restoration process.
\r\n\r\nWait to begin any repairs or demolition until your insurance company has sent an adjuster to your home to assess the damage or has given you authorization to move forward.
\r\n\r\nKeep track of all the damage by taking photos and video of the entire process, documenting conversations with your insurer, and maintaining consistent, clear communication.
\r\nRemoving water as quickly as possible after your basement floods is important in order to minimize any damage to flooring, carpets, drywall, etc.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nAct quickly to limit damage to your home and avoid further problems down the road.
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If you have a sump pump, this is the best choice for removing large amounts of water.
\r\n\r\nBuckets or a hose to siphon the water are your next best bets.
\r\n\r\nA wet vac can suck up relatively small amount of standing water from carpets and floors.
\r\n\r\nIf the flooding is minimal, mopping up the water with towels or an absorbent mop head is typically sufficient.
\r\n\r\nThe longer the water is allowed to sit in your basement, the more extensive the damage is likely to become.
\r\n\r\nOnce the bulk of the water is removed, open your windows (if it's dry outside) and utilize fans and dehumidifiers to move air and dry out your basement and belongings. Running the air conditioner or furnace can be helpful, too.
\r\n\r\nIf you're able to dry out your basement and belongings in less than 24-48 hours, you can likely get away without removing or tossing too much.
\r\n\r\nAs previously mentioned, remember to document the entire process as you go, taking photos and video of the level of flood damage.
\r\n\r\nWater damage can be sneaky and penetrate the structure of your home, causing trapped moisture pockets, which can lead to hidden mildew and mold within your walls or beneath your floors and eventually, structural damage.
\r\n\r\nWe recommend using a moisture meter to ensure moisture doesn't go undetected.
\r\n\r\nIf the flood damage is extensive, you'll want to contact a qualified flood restoration company to take any additional steps to ensure your home is adequately dried out, repairs are made, and the structure is safe for years to come.
\r\n\r\nIf the cause of the flood is covered by your homeowner's insurance, you will need to get authorization from your insurer before beginning cleanup, so reach out to them immediately.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nAs previously mentioned, the faster you can dry things out, the less damage you'll experience.
\r\n\r\nAs soon as it's safe to do so, separate any water-logged items and air them out. (Don't forget to document!)
\r\n\r\nThe quicker you can remove salvageable items, the better chance you have of saving them.
\r\n\r\nIf an item has been exposed to water for more than 24-48 hours, they likely contain mold spores and should be thrown out.
\r\n\r\nSimilarly, we recommend throwing out any food that has been in close proximity to flood water, not just the food that has come in contact with it.
\r\n\r\nIf you have a decent amount of items to get rid of, whether it's random household items, furniture, appliances, or carpeting, a junk removal company can help haul it away quickly and safely.
\r\n\r\nOr, if you'd rather do the work yourself, renting a dumpster is another great option.
\r\n\r\nHometown specializes in helping homeowners find junk removal services and dumpster rentals in their hometown. Browse companies in your area, read customer reviews, and request quotes from multiple providers to ensure you get the best price for great services.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nIf your basement flood was caused by a burst pipe or broken appliance, a qualified local plumber should be one of your first calls.
\r\n\r\nA plumber will be able to stop the leak, fix the pipe, and resolve any plumbing issues that contributed to the flood.
\r\n\r\nMany plumbers will also recommend restoration companies to help remove any water and restore your property, but don't allow any restoration company to begin any work before your insurance company has the chance to send an adjuster to look at the damage and assess your claim.
\r\n\r\nFind reputable demolition contractors in your area to help you complete any structural or renovation-related work. We also recommend getting multiple quotes from demolition contractors before signing a contract to ensure you don't overpay.
\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nA flood in your basement is a huge pain, regardless of the severity. Learn the steps you should take to protect your property, and thereby yourself, by getting things dried out, cleaned up, and back to normal as soon as possible.
\r\n","changed":"2022-02-09T15:23:23+00:00"},{"id":"1e9f9e7d-872a-55db-9f97-25370fbfc6d1","title":"How to Request Junk Removal Quotes with Hometown","url":"/blog/how-to-request-junk-removal-quotes-with-hometown","image":{"path":"/static/445c9cf52436151a6717d557e0b83dd2/hometown-junk-removal-quote-request.png","alt":"Hometown junk removal quote request form"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"5928a41a-3ef0-577b-a694-0bb6cb93c693","name":"Hiring for Junk Removal","slug":"Hiring-for-Junk-Removal"},{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"},{"id":"58c950b5-f4ae-5829-8cae-bf1a2ddaac1c","name":"Junk Removal Costs","slug":"Junk-Removal-Costs"}],"content":"\r\n\r\n\r\nAt Hometown, our quote request form simplifies the process of getting free estimates from local junk removal service providers.
\r\n
You can select your own service provider, or Hometown will match up your request to the right local experts for you. Either way, we make getting quotes fast and easy.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nWe'll ask you a few questions about your project, including...
\r\n\r\nNote: We never share or sell your data. We only use your project details to help connect you to the right local junk removal companies and to follow up on your satisfaction level. That’s it.
\r\n\r\nOnce your request is submitted, you’ll receive a text alerting you when a service provider accepts your request and agrees to provide a quote.
\r\n\r\nThe company will then follow up with you directly to provide or set up a quote.
\r\n\r\nThere’s no obligation to hire.
\r\n\r\nCompare the customer service and quotes you receive. If and when you’re ready, hire the junk removal company you like the most.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nAt Hometown, our quote request form simplifies the process of getting free estimates from local junk removal companies. Find out how Hometown makes getting junk removal quotes fast and easy for a stress-free home or business cleanup experience.
\r\n","changed":"2023-03-13T22:17:10+00:00"},{"id":"5ceb46c6-78c5-5345-a58b-1864982bc423","title":"Dumpster Rental Dos and Don'ts: Tips for a Hassle-Free Experience","url":"/blog/dumpster-rental-dos-and-donts","image":{"path":"/static/3d55e2379d73be62217811e52fd8a81d/full-dumpster-being-picked-up.jpg","alt":"full dumpster being picked up"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"},{"id":"dd92d707-caa9-53dc-912a-007bbedfac04","name":"Booking a Dumpster Service","slug":"Booking-a-Dumpster-Service"}],"content":"Knowing the do's and don'ts of dumpster rental is one of the first steps you should take to ensure a smooth and successful dumpster rental experience.
\r\n\r\nFollow these do's and don'ts to make the most of your dumpster, ensure compliance with regulations, and contribute to a safe and efficient cleanup or renovation project.
\r\n\r\n![\"infographic](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/dumpster-rental-dos-and-donts-infographic.jpg\")
\r\nOne of the most important steps to a great dumpster rental experience is to do your research. That means researching different dumpster rental companies in your area and learning more about the dumpster rental process.
\r\n\r\nCompare prices, services, customer reviews, and terms to make an informed choice.
\r\n\r\nEstimate the amount of debris or junk you need to dispose of to select the right dumpster size. A general rule of thumb is it's better to choose a slightly larger size than to underestimate and run out of space.
\r\n\r\nThe good news is that the dumpster rental companies you speak to are experts at recommending the right size for your project, so fill them in on what your project is like so they can recommend the best dumpster size for you.
\r\n\r\nRead more: The Ultimate Guide to Dumpster Sizes
\r\n\r\nWhenever possible, schedule your dumpster rental well in advance, especially during peak seasons or busy times. This ensures the dumpster size you need from the company you prefer is available, allowing you to stick to your desired project timeline.
\r\n\r\nCheck with your local municipality or homeowner's association to confirm any permits or regulations required for placing a dumpster on your property or in a public area.
\r\n\r\nA qualified, licensed, and insured dumpster rental company will pull any necessary permits for you, but confirm this with each dumpster rental company you speak to.
\r\n\r\nClearly communicate the details of your project to the dumpster rental company, including the type of debris you'll be getting rid of, rental duration you expect you'll need, and any other special requirements.
\r\n\r\nIf you have any appliances, debris, empty paint cans, or similar items, confirm with each company you speak to what is and isn't allowed in their dumpster so you are prepared and not surprised by your final bill.
\r\n\r\nLoad the dumpster evenly and distribute weight to prevent overloading your dumpster or uneven weight distribution. Be sure to follow any guidelines provided by your dumpster rental company.
\r\n\r\nWhenever possible, break down large items to maximize the usable space in the dumpster. Compact debris as you go to ensure efficient use of the container, and be strategic about how you load items into the dumpster.
\r\n\r\nWhenever possible, separate recyclable materials from your other debris. Many dumpster rental companies offer recycling options, so inquire about their recycling policies before renting so you know what to expect.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nBe mindful of weight limits specified by the rental company. Exceeding weight limits may result in additional charges or difficulties during pickup, which can cost you more money and more time.
\r\n\r\nQualified dumpster rental companies will place plywood or boards under the dumpster to protect your driveway or pavement from damage. Confirm this with the companies you speak to so you know whether or not this is something they provide.
\r\n\r\nAlso, clear the area of any obstacles that could obstruct dumpster delivery or pick-up.
\r\n\r\nAvoid overloading the dumpster beyond its capacity. Items should not be sticking out or stacked too high, as this can pose safety hazards during transportation.
\r\n\r\nMost dumpsters have a \"fill line\" inside the container indicating the maximum height you can load your debris in the dumpster while allowing it to be safely transported.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading: How to Estimate the Weight of a Dumpster Load to Avoid Overage Fees
\r\n\r\nDo not dispose of hazardous materials, like chemicals, paint, tires, asbestos, or electronics, in the dumpster. These items require alternate proper disposal methods.
\r\n\r\nLearn more: How to Dispose of Household Hazardous Waste
\r\n\r\nAvoid placing the dumpster in a location that blocks access to your property or creates obstacles for neighbors, pedestrians, or emergency vehicles.
\r\n\r\nDon't skip checking for required permits or violating local regulations for dumpster placement. Failing to comply can result in fines or delays.
\r\n\r\nThis is why we recommend asking each company you speak to about how they handle the permitting process, so you remain protected.
\r\n\r\nTake the time to properly sort through your debris. Separating recyclable materials from non-recyclable items can save space and reduce environmental impact, as well as your disposal fees.
\r\n\r\nOnce your project is complete, don't delay scheduling the dumpster pick-up. Prompt pick-up ensures you're not charged extra for keeping the dumpster longer than planned.
\r\n\r\nAvoid guessing the size you need. It's better to consult with the rental company and get their recommendation based on the specifics of your project. If they recommend a larger dumpster than you anticipated needing, don't write off the idea.
\r\n\r\nOftentimes, a larger dumpster is the better choice because you get significantly more dumpster space for only $50-$100 more on average, sometimes less.
\r\n\r\nIgnoring weight limits can result in safety hazards, damage to your property, and additional fees. Be mindful of the weight of the debris you're disposing of and do your best to stay within your dumpster's weight limit.
\r\n\r\nPrioritize safety during loading and unloading. Avoid climbing inside the dumpster, and use proper lifting techniques to prevent injuries.
\r\n\r\nMany dumpsters have a door or doors that swing back and out of the way, allowing you to carry heavy items into the dumpster safely.
\r\n\r\nBe aware of the payment terms and schedule. Don't assume you can delay payment or that fees won't apply if you exceed the agreed-upon rental period.
\r\n\r\nFollow these do's and don'ts to make the most of your dumpster, ensure compliance with regulations, and contribute to a safe and efficient cleanup or renovation project.
\r\n","changed":"2023-08-16T20:25:58+00:00"}],"populars":[{"state":"Nebraska","place":"Omaha, NE","code":"dumpster-rental","code_name":"Dumpster Rental","url":"Nebraska/Omaha-NE-dumpster-rental.html","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Nebraska","place":"Omaha, NE","code":"junk-removal","code_name":"Junk Removal","url":"Nebraska/junk-removal/omaha-ne.html","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Nebraska","place":"Omaha, NE","code":"commercial-waste-management","code_name":"Commercial Waste Management","url":"nebraska/commercial-waste-management-omaha-ne","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"}],"tips":[{"name":"20 Yard Dumpsters","body":"Standard open-top roll-offs are the most common type of 20 yard dumpster. Most feature a door that swings open for easy loading, making it extra convenient to load bulky or heavy items, like furniture, appliances, concrete, and demolition debris. Dumpster trailers are another option that some dumpster rental providers offer. Trailers are a great option when the ground is soft or uneven.
\r\n\r\nStay within your dumpster's weight allowance. The weight capacity will vary depending on who you rent from, but the average weight limit for a 20 yard dumpster is about 3 tons (6,000 lbs). Going over the weight allowance will incur additional charges as high as $100 per ton. A standard rental period is seven days (varies by company). A per-day late fee is applicable for keeping the dumpster longer than your contract covers, so make sure you understand your dumpster rental period to avoid paying extra. The type of waste/debris is important. Some rental companies have rules in place based on the type of debris. The weight allowance may vary depending on the debris you're throwing away. Some companies may not allow you to mix certain debris, like concrete and household trash for example. Some waste is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to, hazardous wastes, tires, automotive fluids, and batteries. Many dumpster rental companies recycle. Make it easier for your dumpster rental company (and potentially less expensive for you) by separating recyclables when possible, like concrete, asphalt shingles, dirt, cardboard/paper, and scrap metal.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\n\n\t\t\t\t\tKey Sanitation is known throughout Creighton, NE for being the top choice for quality, reliable dumpster rental services. Our containers are perfect for a wide range of cleanup projects. Speak with us today for more info!\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tAt Scrapped, we are a dedicated, locally owned roll-off rental team based in Wahoo, though we proudly serve the broader Omaha and Lincoln regions. To...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
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