Flood Cleanup in Lafayette, LA

Floodwater isn't like a burst pipe. When a coulee tops its banks or the street drains back up, the water that comes inside carries whatever it picked up on the way, and it soaks everything below the waterline. Once it's safe to go back in, call (337) 205-7937. One call connects you with a local pro who can pull out the water and wet materials, dry the structure and give you a free quote.

Why flood cleanup is its own job

Lafayette knows this one well. In August 2016, more than 21 inches of rain fell on parts of the parish, and water reached nearly 2,000 Lafayette Parish homes, some outside mapped flood zones. Flood cleanup differs from a plumbing leak or AC overflow in a few ways:

• The water is contaminated. The CDC warns that floodwater can carry sewage, bacteria and chemicals. Keep kids and pets out, and wear boots and gloves.
• More has to come out. The EPA notes that porous materials that got soaked, such as carpet pad, insulation and ceiling tiles, often can't be fully cleaned. Drywall is usually cut out above the waterline so the wall cavity can dry.
• It gets under the house. In raised homes, floodwater sits in the crawl space long after the yard drains.
• It's a different insurance policy. Standard homeowners policies generally exclude flooding. Flood damage is usually covered only by a separate flood policy, such as one through the NFIP.

Before help arrives

1. Stay safe. Don't walk through standing water near outlets or appliances, and turn off power only from a dry spot.
2. Photograph everything first. FEMA asks flood policyholders to photograph and video the damage, the waterline on walls and anything they plan to throw out, including appliance serial numbers.
3. Keep samples. FEMA suggests saving small pieces of damaged carpet or flooring for the adjuster.
4. Watch the deadline. NFIP policyholders generally have 60 days from the flood to submit proof of loss. Ask your insurer about your dates.

What flood cleanup looks like

1. Call (337) 205-7937 and describe how high the water got and how long it sat.
2. Walkthrough and written quote. Your local pro maps how far the water wicked and what has to come out.
3. Extraction and tear-out. Standing water, mud and soaked materials are removed.
4. Clean and dry. Surfaces are cleaned and sanitized, and dehumidifiers and air movers run until moisture readings confirm it's dry.
5. Check for mold before anything is closed back up. See our homepage for mold remediation.

Rebuilding is a separate step. In Louisiana, home improvement work over $7,500 requires a registered or licensed contractor, so ask for their LSLBC number.

Flood cleanup FAQ