April: April Showers Bring Flooded Basements?

April Showers Bring Flooded Basements?

The Spring rainy season is just around the corner. Unfortunately, it always seems to come in buckets! All too often it overwhelms our sump pumps, window wells, and foundations, leaving us with flooded basements and wet belongings.

Now is the time to check your sump pump to make sure it is functioning correctly. We recommend that your sump pump has a working battery back-up in case of a power loss. Check your foundation for any cracks and your window wells. Check your gutters for anything that could potentially clog them i.e. fallen leaves and branches and have the debris removed.

Also, check with your insurance agent to make sure you have adequate coverage in case you do sustain water damage of any type. You should maintain the maximum coverage for sump pump failure (if applicable) and also the maximum sewer back-up cap allowable. Damage from sewer back-ups is typically much more costly due to the hazard posed to clean-up personnel, the structure itself and your belongings.

Did you know that water damage sustained by heavy rain water entering your home through the foundation, window wells, and doors is generally not covered by the basic home owner policy? Be sure to check with your agent to see if he/she offers the national flood insurance program that can potentially cover such a loss.

Lastly, there are a few important steps to take immediately if you have water damage. First, avoid any hazards. Electrical shock, falling on wet floors, and bacteria in sewer water are all real and common dangers. Second, stop the source. If you haven’t located the source of water, call us immediately and we’ll guide you through this. Third, take immediate action. Call Kansas Carpet Care Inc any time. Our phones are answered 24 hours a day! Lastly, begin removing furniture and items from the wet areas or elevate them off the floor. Remove all rugs, as the color will bleed easily onto your carpets. And remember, help is on the way!