When the Water Rises: What to Do After Basement Flooding & How to Prepare for Next Time

Over the past two days, Waukesha County and surrounding areas have experienced near-record rainfall and flooding. Many homes have taken on water, especially in basements — whether from sump pump failures, power outages, overwhelmed drainage systems, or water seeping in through egress windows.

As insurance agents, we’ve been getting a lot of calls — and a lot of questions — about what is and isn’t covered by homeowners insurance. This post will walk you through:

• How to safely clean up after water gets in
• What hidden dangers to check for
• How flood and water damage coverage actually works
• How to prepare so you’re better protected next time

1. Safety First — What to Do When You Find Water in Your Basement

1. Turn off electricity to the affected area before entering a wet basement, especially if you see standing water near outlets, appliances, or your breaker panel.
2. Document everything with photos and videos before you begin cleanup. This is essential for any potential insurance claim.
3. Remove standing water as quickly as possible with a shop vac or sump pump.
4. Pull up wet carpet or rugs to prevent mold growth.
5. Use fans and dehumidifiers to dry the space completely — mold can begin to grow in as little as 24–48 hours.

2. Potential Hazards to Watch For

• Electrical risks — Wet wiring can be dangerous. If water was near your electrical panel, outlets, or appliances, have an electrician inspect before restoring power.
• Mold and mildew — Even after things look dry, moisture inside walls can cause long-term damage.
• Structural issues — Hydrostatic pressure from saturated soil can cause cracks in basement walls or floors.

If anything looks sketchy, call in an electrician or contractor before trying to power things back up.

3. Understanding Home Insurance & Water Damage

Water damage is one of the most misunderstood areas of home insurance. Here’s the truth:

• Water from a sump pump or floor drain is only covered if you have purchased optional water backup coverage.
• Water seeping through basement windows or concrete is almost always excluded, except with certain higher-end policies (e.g., Selective Insurance offers Hydrostatic Pressure coverage).
• Insurance isn’t a scam — it’s a contract. You’re only covered for what you purchased, which is why we encourage reviewing your policy before you need it.

It’s not that insurance companies don’t care — it’s that policies only pay for what you’ve specifically bought ahead of time.

4. Deciding Whether to File a Claim

If your damage is mostly to flooring or carpet, consider:

• Your deductible — If repairs cost less than or close to your deductible, filing a claim might not make sense.
• Claim history — Multiple claims can raise your premiums or affect your eligibility for coverage.

5. Prevention Tips for the Next Storm

We can’t stop the rain, but we can make it harder for water to get in next time

• Install a battery backup sump pump to keep water moving during power outages.
• Test your sump pump regularly, especially before big storms.
• Clear debris from egress window wells and consider covers.
• Ensure downspouts carry water at least 6–10 feet away from your home.
• Grade landscaping so water flows away from your foundation.

A few small changes now could save you a whole basement of headaches later.

Final Thought

No one wants to deal with a wet basement — but knowing how to respond quickly, understanding your insurance, and preparing in advance can make the difference between a temporary headache and a costly disaster. If you have questions about your coverage, reach out before the next storm hits.