Active Basement Flood? Do This First:
- Turn off electricity to the affected area at the breaker (if safe to access)
- Stop the water source if possible (shut off main water valve)
- Get everyone out of the basement
- Call APT Water Restoration: (630) 855-3362
- Call your insurance company to open a claim
What to Do Immediately (Safety First)
The first 30 minutes after discovering a flooded basement are the most important. Your actions during this window determine whether you end up with a manageable restoration job or a months-long mold and structural nightmare.
Electricity — Your #1 Priority
Water and electricity are a deadly combination. Before entering a flooded basement, locate your electrical panel (usually in the basement or garage) and shut off power to all circuits serving the basement. If your panel is already in the flooded area, call your utility company and do NOT enter.
Stop the Water Source
If flooding is from a burst pipe, find your main water shutoff valve (typically near the water meter) and turn it clockwise to close it. For sump pump failure or storm flooding, you cannot stop it at the source — focus on getting professional help immediately.
Evacuate the Basement
Do not bring anything with you — just get out. Sewage-contaminated floodwater (black water) contains E. coli, hepatitis, and other pathogens. Even clean water can become contaminated within hours.
Document Everything
Before any cleanup begins, photograph and video everything — standing water levels, damaged furniture, wet walls, water stains. This documentation is essential for your insurance claim. Do this from the doorway — don't wade in.
Who to Call (And When)
1. Call APT Water Restoration First — (630) 855-3362
Call us before your insurance company. Here's why: water extraction must begin immediately to prevent additional damage that could void your coverage. We document everything from the moment we arrive, which actually supports your insurance claim rather than complicating it.
- 60-minute on-site response guarantee, 24/7
- Immediate water extraction prevents mold and structural damage
- All documentation and photos taken for your insurance claim
- We work directly with your adjuster on your behalf
2. Call Your Insurance Company
Call your homeowners insurance carrier to open a claim as soon as you've called APT. Most policies require you to report damage promptly. Have your policy number ready. Don't accept or deny coverage on the phone — just report the event and get a claim number.
Note: APT handles direct communication with your adjuster once we're on site.
3. Call Your Utility Company (If Electricity Is At Risk)
If your electrical panel is in the flooded area and you cannot safely shut off power, call ComEd (1-800-334-7661) or your local utility immediately. They can disconnect power to your home safely from outside.
4. Call the City (For Sewer Backup)
If sewage is backing up through floor drains, it may be caused by a blockage in the municipal system. Call your city's public works emergency line. This doesn't replace calling APT — you still need professional cleanup regardless of the cause.
What Professional Restoration Looks Like
When APT arrives, here's exactly what happens:
Moisture Mapping
Thermal cameras and moisture meters identify all saturated areas, including behind walls and under flooring.
Water Extraction
Truck-mounted extractors remove all standing water in minutes — far faster than any consumer equipment.
Structural Drying
Industrial air movers and dehumidifiers dry the structure completely, typically over 3-5 days.
Antimicrobial Treatment
All affected surfaces receive professional antimicrobial treatment to prevent mold colonization.
Contents Handling
Salvageable contents are moved to dry areas. Unsalvageable materials are documented for insurance.
Ongoing Monitoring
We return daily to check moisture readings and adjust equipment until drying goals are achieved.
Costs & Insurance Coverage
Basement flood restoration costs vary significantly based on the size of the affected area, water category (clean vs. contaminated), and the extent of structural damage. Here's a general range:
Most standard homeowners insurance policies cover sudden and accidental water damage. APT provides a free on-site estimate and handles your entire insurance claim process at no extra cost to you.
Prevention Tips
Install a battery backup sump pump — primary pumps fail during power outages caused by the same storms that cause flooding
Maintain gutters and downspouts — clogged gutters push water toward your foundation
Grade soil away from your foundation — ground should slope away from the house
Seal foundation cracks with hydraulic cement or polyurethane caulk
Install a sewer backflow preventer to stop municipal sewer backups
Check your sump pump annually — test by pouring water into the pit