A flood is a home-wrecking event that leaves families not just unsecure, but also, devastated. However, after such tragic events, looking back isn’t going to bring anything. The right documentation should ensure the rebuilding of the house goes faster and cheaper. But first, flood damage cleanup must be made in order to start rebuilding and treating the damage.

Read about staying safe during the process, and how to assure these things don’t happen again in the long run.

Common Sources of Flooding

Floods can result from both, natural and human factors, and are, unfortunately, a common everyday event.

According to the World Resources Institute, nearly 1.47 billion people globally are at risk of flooding, with urban areas and low-lying regions most vulnerable due to their geolocation.

• Natural Causes:
  • Heavy rainfall or hurricanes overwhelm drainage systems.
  • Melting snow and ice lead to river overflows.
  • Coastal storm surges inundate low-lying areas.
• Human Factors:
  • Poorly maintained urban drainage systems lead to water pooling in streets and homes.
  • Deforestation and unregulated urban development increase runoff and erosion.
  • Infrastructure failures, such as dam or levee breaches, can result in catastrophic flooding.

Preparing for Safe Flood Cleanup

When it comes to cleaning up after a flood, safety isn’t just a priority – it’s a lifeline. The aftermath of a flood can be chaotic, but taking a calm, careful approach can keep your family safe and ensure effective recovery. Your home is more than just walls and a roof; it’s your sanctuary. Protecting it starts with protecting yourself.

• Rubber gloves and waterproof boots keep your skin safe from contaminants.
• Invest in a whole-body, long sleeve suit (this is your chance to look like a scientist)!
• Goggles protect your eyes from splashes of dirty water or cleaning agents.
• An N95 mask is essential to guard against mold spores and other airborne hazards.
• Boil tap water, since it’s 100% contaminated
• Throw away all food stored, it’s better to be safe than sorry
• Check your tetanus vaccination, because you’ll be exposed at risk of cuts and punctures (broken glass, nails etc)
• Use electricity gloves, because hidden live wires might be deadly
• Wear a helmet, because unstable structures like sagging ceilings or weakened walls could collapse unexpectedly.

Before you even step inside, make sure all utilities are off. Turn off electricity and gas at their main switches to avoid electrocution or gas leaks. If you’re unsure, call a professional to inspect and shut them off safely.

Step-by-Step Flood Cleanup Tips

Flood cleanup can feel like staring at a mountain you’re supposed to climb with no trail in sight. It’s overwhelming, especially if your family’s comfort and stability feel as damaged as your home. But remember: one step at a time turns chaos into progress. Here’s how to make the process manageable:

1. The First Step

Evaluating the damage isn’t your job, so start documenting.

• Use your smartphone or camera to document every detail with photos and videos. These records are crucial for insurance claims and will help you prioritize tasks.
• Walk carefully, keeping an eye out for sagging ceilings, loose debris, and standing water near electrical outlets.
• If structural risks are apparent, avoid entering and consult a licensed professional to assess the damage.

2. Water Removal

If there is any water left, this is where you start with the cleaning part.

• Use pumps, buckets, or wet-dry vacuums to remove water efficiently.
• Ensure water is draining far from your home’s foundation to avoid reflooding.
• Floodwater is often contaminated – avoid direct contact and wear protective gear to minimize exposure to bacteria or harmful chemicals.

3. Drying and Dehumidifying

This is probably the most important step when dealing with a flooded house that can be saved instead of rebuilt.

• Open every window and door (add fans and air dehumidifiers to assist the air circulation)
• Check “hidden spots”, like inside closets, under cabinets, etc to avoid dampness

4. Debris Removal

This step is an emotionally devastating one, because you will have to get rid of precious things that were actually making you feel at home.

• Discard carpets, furniture, mattresses and upholstery (they are porous and have already absorbed the contaminated flood water)
• Leave aside anything that can be sanitized (e.g plastics, unbroken glass pieces)
• Beware of sharp debris, like nails or broken glass, especially if hidden in the mud or wreckage. Heavy-duty gloves are a must for this task.

5. Cleaning and Disinfecting

While performing this step, we strongly suggest to use the assistance of professionals, or, completely cover yourself in a safeguarding suit, alongside a breathing mask and safety glasses.

• Scrub surfaces with warm, soapy water, then disinfect with a bleach solution (1 cup bleach per gallon of water).
• Pay special attention to high-contact areas like kitchen counters, bathroom surfaces, and doorknobs.
• Never mix cleaning agents like bleach and ammonia – the fumes can be toxic. Stick to one cleaner at a time.

6. Preventing Mold Growth

Mold is the flood’s companion you simply can’t overpass. It will be there, and it will become visible in less than 24 hours. The only thing you can do is to stop it from growing.

• Dry all affected areas as quickly as possible and maintain good ventilation.
• Use mold removal sprays or vinegar solutions to treat small patches. For larger infestations, call in a professional.
• During renovations, choose mold-resistant materials like special paints or drywall to minimize future risks.

7. Rebuilding Safely

Once the cleanup is done, rebuilding is your chance to create a safer, more resilient home.

• Hire licensed contractors to repair damage to your foundation, wiring, and plumbing.
• Replace insulation and drywall with water-resistant materials like closed-cell foam or vinyl flooring.
• Consider upgrading your home with elevated appliances, sump pumps, or flood barriers to reduce vulnerability to future floods.

Preventing Future Flood Damage

Being proactive helps protect your family and property from future flooding events.

• Flood Mitigation Measures: Install sump pumps, backflow valves, and water alarms to detect leaks early. Elevate electrical systems and appliances.
• Maintain Drainage Systems: Clean gutters, downspouts, and drainage ditches to ensure proper water flow.
• Landscaping Solutions: Use techniques like planting native vegetation or creating swales to direct water away from your home.
• Emergency Preparedness: Keep an emergency kit with essentials like bottled water, flashlights, batteries, and first-aid supplies.
• Monitor Weather Alerts: Stay informed about weather forecasts and flood warnings through local apps or alerts.

Flood recovery is tough, but with careful planning and action, you can rebuild your home and life. By prioritizing safety, taking decisive steps, and staying informed, your family can face the challenges of flooding with resilience and security.