Flooded Basement? 5 Things to Do Before You Panic (And One to Avoid)

Maryland1
Aug 12, 2025
2 min read

When your basement suddenly becomes a swimming pool, it's easy to freak out. We get it — standing water, soggy boxes, ruined floors… it’s the stuff of homeowner nightmares.

But don’t panic, Master Kleen has your back. Here are 5 smart moves to make right away and one very common mistake to avoid at all costs.

✅ 1. Stop the Source

Before anything else, locate and stop where the water’s coming from.

Broken pipe? Shut off your water main.
Heavy rain? Check sump pumps and downspouts.
Sewer backup? (Yep… we handle those too.)

If it’s safe to do so, stop the water flow immediately.

✅ 2. Cut the Power — Safely

Water and electricity are a dangerous combo. If water is near outlets, cords, or appliances, cut the power to the basement from a dry area only. If you’re unsure, wait for emergency help or a licensed technician — safety first.

✅ 3. Take Photos for Insurance

Before you start cleaning up, document everything. Take clear photos and videos of the damage, water levels, and affected items. This is crucial if you plan to file a homeowner’s insurance claim.

Pro Tip: Include timestamped photos if possible.

✅ 4. Call in the Pros (That’s Us!)

Every minute counts when it comes to water damage. The longer water sits, the more it soaks into walls, floors, insulation — and gives mold a reason to move in.

📞 Call Master Kleen ASAP. We’ll:

Extract water
Dry out the area professionally
Sanitize affected zones
Help prevent mold growth
Work with your insurance if needed

✅ 5. Remove Valuables (Not Carpet!)

Save anything that’s dry and salvageable — important documents, electronics, keepsakes. But don’t rip up carpet or drywall on your own. Why? You could spread contamination, make the damage worse, or even void insurance coverage.

❌ What NOT to Do: Don’t Wait It Out.

Basement water rarely just “goes away.” Even after it looks dry, moisture lingers behind walls and under flooring — where mold grows quietly.

Waiting turns a small cleanup into a major restoration.

💧 Final Thoughts from Master Kleen

Whether it’s a burst pipe, storm surge, or mysterious seepage, basement floods don’t have to be a disaster. With the right steps — and the right team — you can clean it up quickly and protect your home for the future.

🧼 Need help now? We’re available for emergency response across Maryland

📞 410-758-1440🌐