What to do if…
you find standing water in your basement or crawl space after heavy rain

What to do now

1. Make the area off-limits. Close the basement or crawl space access if you can, and keep people and pets away from the water.

2. Check for hazards from outside the water. If you smell gas, hear buzzing or crackling, see sparks, see sagging floors or walls, or feel the building may be unsafe, leave the home and call 911. If you smell gas or suspect a leak, also contact the gas utility or fire department from outside.

3. Make electricity safe before entering.

   • If you can reach the main breaker or fuse box from a completely dry, safe spot, turn the power off.
   • If reaching it means stepping into water or touching wet equipment, do not try. Call an electrician, or ask the utility how to have service disconnected safely.
   • Do not turn power back on until wet electrical equipment and wiring have been checked by a qualified electrician.

4. Stop easy water sources only if you can do it safely.

   • If a plumbing break may be adding water, shut off the main water valve only if you can reach it without wading.
   • If gutters or downspouts are dumping water against the foundation and you can redirect them from outside without standing in floodwater, do that.
   • Move small valuables up from dry edges only if you do not have to enter standing water.

5. Document the damage before cleanup. Take photos or video of the water depth, water line, entry points, walls, floors, furnace, water heater, outlets, stored items, and any damaged belongings. Keep receipts for pumps, fans, cleanup supplies, contractors, and emergency mitigation.

6. Contact the right people early.

   • If you own the home, contact your homeowners insurer and, if you have a separate flood policy, your flood insurer or agent.
   • If you rent, contact the landlord or property manager and document what you reported.
   • Ask what they want photographed, what emergency work is allowed, and whether they require specific cleanup or mitigation contractors.

7. Remove water cautiously only after the immediate hazards are controlled.

   • If there are only shallow puddles and the power situation is safe, use non-corded tools or equipment only as directed and keep yourself out of contaminated water where possible.
   • If the water is several feet deep, do not rush to drain it all at once. Official flood cleanup guidance warns that removing deep basement water too quickly can contribute to wall or floor cracking or collapse.
   • If you are unsure whether the outside water level has dropped or whether the structure is stable, wait and get professional help.

8. Treat the water as contaminated unless you are sure it is clean.

   • Wear waterproof boots, gloves, and eye protection if you must be near wet materials.
   • Avoid splashing water onto your face, and wash hands after contact with wet items.
   • If you suspect sewage backup, strong chemical odor, fuel, or unknown debris, keep everyone out and contact a qualified cleanup service or local public health authority.