Flood Damage Restoration In Farmington Hills, MI

What should you do when your basement floods?

Stay out of standing water if the power is still on near it. Turn off electricity to the basement only if you can reach the panel without stepping in water. If the water is coming from a pipe or appliance, shut off the main water valve. Take photos and video before you move anything, then call your insurance company and a flood restoration company. The EPA says wet materials should be dried within 24 to 48 hours to prevent mold growth.

Is flood water dangerous?

It can be. The restoration industry standard (IICRC S500) sorts water into three categories. Category 1 is clean water from a supply line. Category 2 is gray water, such as washing machine overflow. Category 3 is grossly contaminated water, which includes sewage and flooding from outside. Category 3 water needs protective gear, and porous materials it touches usually have to be removed, not dried. That is why the water source and category are identified before drying starts.

Our flood damage restoration process

1. Inspection. We find the water source, classify the water and map the moisture with meters and infrared cameras.
2. Water extraction. Industrial pumps and extractors remove standing water from floors, carpet and crawlspaces.
3. Removal of damaged materials. Wet drywall, insulation, carpet pad and contaminated materials come out.
4. Structural drying. Commercial dehumidifiers and air movers dry walls, subfloors and foundations. We take moisture readings until everything is dry.
5. Cleaning and sanitizing. Affected areas are cleaned and treated to prevent mold and odor.
6. Reconstruction. We rebuild drywall, flooring, trim and finishes under a 5-year workmanship warranty. See our reconstruction services.

What causes basement flooding in Southeast Michigan?

Common causes include heavy rain, sump pump failure or power loss, sewer or drain backup, foundation seepage, burst pipes and water heater failure. A storm can cause more than one at once, like a power outage that stops the sump pump while rain is filling the pit. See also storm damage restoration and water damage restoration.

Does homeowners insurance cover flood damage?

It depends on where the water came from. Standard homeowners policies usually do not cover flooding from rising surface water. That requires separate flood insurance, such as a policy through the National Flood Insurance Program. Sewer or drain backup is often covered only if you added a backup endorsement. Water from a sudden burst pipe is often covered. Read your policy or call your agent. Aaron Builders works with carriers including State Farm, Allstate, AAA, Travelers and Liberty Mutual, and our Xactimate-certified estimators document the loss for your adjuster.

Flood damage restoration near you

Aaron Builders serves 13 counties in Southeast Michigan, including Oakland, Wayne, Macomb, Washtenaw and Livingston, with flood cleanup in Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills, Farmington Hills, Ferndale, Novi, Royal Oak, Sterling Heights, Walled Lake and Wixom. See all service areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does flood cleanup take?

Drying typically takes 3 to 5 days with professional equipment. Rebuilding depends on how much material had to be removed.

Can I stay in my house during flood restoration?

Often yes, if the flooding is limited to the basement and there is no sewage involved. We will tell you if it is not safe.

Do I need to throw out wet carpet?

Carpet soaked by Category 3 water is usually removed. Carpet wet with clean water can sometimes be saved if it is dried quickly. The pad underneath is usually replaced.