How to Protect a Basement from Flooding Somerville MA

Steps

Emergency Power

1. Make sure you have a sump pump. It is more important than your plasma tv or a kegerator. Without it, it is just like the Titanic in an iceberg field:bad.
2. Check to see if your sump pump has backup power.A simple 30-minute thunderstorm can quickly destroy weekends worth of sweat equity -- unless your sump pump has backup power. Emergency power comes in three basic forms. Backup battery systems work-for a few hours. If you want automatic AND long-term protection, consider getting a standby generator. They also protect your whole house, but it is more expensive. Standby generators can automatically keep your basement dry, your beer cold and your TV tuned into the big game. They can also keep your family safe and warm during a disaster.

Warning Systems

1. Get a warning system. Even if you have backup power, you should be warned that your basement will flood.

Flood Insurance

1. Avoid Homeowner's insurance. It only protects you from wind damages, not flood damages.
2. Get a separate flood insurance policy to protect your basement from rising tides. Check with your local insurance agent for details.

Tips

• Put a vent or hole in the the basement wall where where flooded water can flow out such as by the basement windows. This can lower the cost of your flood insurance.
• Where the sump pump is, try making the hole deeper so it will collect longer before it floods out onto the floor where your plasma TV is.
• You can help prevent basement water problems by keeping your rain gutters clean, extending rain gutter downspouts and other routine maintenance.
• Be aware that weather isn't the only cause. Make sure your plumbing is good. Make sure your pipes don't leak or burst.

Warnings

• Don't underestimate the chances of your basement flooding. This can happen in any home, no matter how well you protect it.

Things You'll Need

• Generator
• Monitoring System
• Flood Insurance

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