When your basement floods with water, it is hard to know where to start the cleanup process.  Do you get rid of the water first, or find the source of the leak?  Do you just start throwing things away, or do you try to salvage what you can?  Who do you even call?

Often, a flooded basement is a rare or one-time occurrence that you’re not prepared to handle.  That’s okay.  The good news is that it is easier than you think to deal with.  Your first call should be to your insurance company.  They’ll have a list of water damage restoration companies that can assist in the cleanup process.  To get an idea of what to expect, here’s a brief rundown of what a restoration company will do:

1. They’ll access the situation and develop a plan.
2. They’ll look for the source of the problem and repair it.
3. They’ll remove the water with industrial pumps, vacuums, and dryers.
4. They’ll utilize fans and air purifiers to reduce odors and to thoroughly dry the area.
5. They’ll address mildew and mold issues if they arise.
6. They’ll repair and restore damaged drywall, flooring, and structural supports.

On the other side of the spectrum, you’ll still have the cleanup process of your personal belongings to handle.  Some items will be easy to save.  Non-porous items that are plastic or metal are easy to sanitize and dry.  But, materials that absorb water prove to be more difficult.  Clothes, stuffed animals, and other linens can be laundered or even taken to the dry cleaner.  Electronics may need professional help, as will collectibles or artwork. 

The items that can’t be salvaged will need to be thrown out, and for that, it is in your best interest to rent a dumpster.  Your insurance company will likely have companies they can refer you to for a dumpster, like ABH Services for Dumpster Rental services.  A dumpster can help you progress through the cleanup process quickly.  Toss items as you can so they don’t grow mold and mildew.  Cardboard, paper, particle board, and damaged construction material can grow mold within 24 hours of coming into contact with water. 

Renting a dumpster will let you throw out your damaged items as you clean.  You can schedule a delivery and pick up time or take advantage of the weekend dumpster special that ABH Services provides.  Chances are that your normal garbage bin won’t be able to hold everything you’ll need to throw out.  A dumpster will be your best investment.

We sure hope that you don’t experience a flooded basement, but if it happens, know that ABH Services has the resources you need to expedite your cleanup process.  Call us at 781-941-2422 when you need a Dumpster Rental Service.  You can learn more about all of our available services at https://www.facebook.com/abhservices.