Basement Flooding Causes, Prevention and Recovery Planning

Common causes

• Burst or leaking plumbing, water heaters and appliances
• Sewer or drain backup
• Sump-pump failure or loss of power
• Surface water entering through doors, windows or window wells
• Foundation cracks, failed drainage or poor grading
• Snow melt, heavy rain or downspouts discharging too close to the building

First response

• Do not enter when water may contact electrical systems or when sewage contamination is possible.
• Call the appropriate emergency service, plumber, utility or municipality when the source is active or unsafe.
• Document the water depth, rooms, contents, sump equipment, floor drains and suspected source.
• Start extraction, controlled removal and structural drying as soon as conditions are safe.

Prevention planning

• Maintain eavestroughs, downspouts, grading and window wells.
• Test the sump pump and consider a suitable backup system and alarm.
• Have a qualified professional assess backwater valves, drainage, foundation cracks and chronic seepage.
• Keep valuable or water-sensitive contents elevated and maintain a home inventory.

Insurance questions

• Sewer backup and overland flood coverage may be optional and are not the same cause of loss.
• Ask the insurer or broker about endorsements, deductibles, limits and any maintenance requirements.
• Keep photographs, contractor records, invoices and evidence of the source and affected areas.

Immediate basement flooding response

Sewage backup claims

Winter water damage prevention