Floodwater that comes into a home from outside, from overflowing creeks, runoff, or rising rivers, is different from a pipe leak. It carries soil, sewage, chemicals, and debris. Cleanup is about safety and sanitation as much as drying.
Parts of Broken Arrow sit near creeks and the Arkansas River, and the City of Broken Arrow publishes flood and stormwater information for residents. If you're unsure whether your property is in a mapped floodplain, see our south Broken Arrow page and the FEMA Flood Map Service Center.
What flood cleanup involves
Flood cleanup typically includes pumping out water, removing mud and debris, cutting out wet drywall and insulation, discarding porous items that absorbed floodwater, cleaning and disinfecting hard surfaces, and then structural drying.
Because floodwater is considered contaminated (often called Category 3 or black water), the usual approach is to remove porous materials rather than try to dry them in place.
Common causes
- Creek and river overflow
- Water rising from nearby waterways during prolonged heavy rain.
- Surface runoff
- Water flowing across lots during intense storms and entering at doors, garages, and low points.
- Overwhelmed storm drainage
- Heavy rainfall can exceed what street and yard drainage can carry away.
What to do right now
- Don't re-enter until authorities say it's safe. Floodwater can hide structural damage, electrical hazards, and displaced wildlife.
- Have the power checked or shut off before entering if water reached outlets or the panel.
- Wear protective gear: waterproof boots, gloves, and eye protection at minimum. An N95 or better respirator is recommended once mold is a concern.
- Photograph everything before removing anything. Insurers, and FEMA after declared disasters, may need documentation.
- Contact your flood insurer if you have a flood policy. Standard homeowners policies generally exclude outside flooding.
What to avoid
- Don't walk or drive through floodwater. Moving water can be deeper and faster than it looks.
- Don't let children or pets play in or near floodwater.
- Don't try to save mattresses, upholstered furniture, or stuffed items soaked by floodwater without professional advice; they are usually discarded.
- Don't use gas-powered generators, pumps, or pressure washers indoors or in a garage. Carbon monoxide can kill.
- Don't mix cleaning products, especially bleach and ammonia.
What usually has to go
After contaminated floodwater, CDC and FEMA guidance generally recommends discarding porous items that can't be thoroughly cleaned and dried: carpet and pad, mattresses, upholstered furniture, stuffed toys, and wet drywall and insulation below the flood line. Hard, non-porous items such as metal, glass, and hard plastic can often be cleaned and disinfected.
Documents and photos
Important papers and photos soaked in floodwater can sometimes be saved by freezing them promptly and having them professionally dried later. Photograph them first for your records.
Drying after a flood
Once contaminated materials are out and surfaces are cleaned, the structure still needs drying. Wall cavities, framing, and slab floors can hold moisture for a long time. Measured drying with dehumidification is the usual approach; see water mitigation.
Damage it can cause
- Contamination of flooring, drywall, insulation, and furnishings
- Silt and mud deposits inside walls and ductwork
- Damage to HVAC equipment, water heaters, and appliances at floor level
- Structural issues from saturated soil or erosion near the foundation
- Mold growth if cleanup and drying are delayed
When professional help may be appropriate
- Floodwater entered living spaces
- Water reached electrical outlets, the panel, or HVAC equipment
- You aren't equipped with protective gear or can't safely handle heavy, contaminated debris
- You need documentation for flood insurance or disaster assistance
If any of these apply, it may be time to talk to a provider.
Request HelpQuestions to ask a provider
- How will you handle contaminated materials and disposal?
- Where will you cut drywall, and how do you decide the flood cut height?
- What cleaning and disinfecting products will you use?
- Do you have experience documenting flood claims?
- Can you provide proof of license and insurance? (Verify independently.)
Providers you reach through this site are independent. Verify licensing, insurance, and pricing directly with them before authorizing work.
Flood Cleanup: common questions
Does homeowners insurance cover flood cleanup?
Standard homeowners policies generally exclude flooding from outside sources. Flood coverage usually comes from a separate policy through the National Flood Insurance Program or a private insurer. Check your policy.
Is floodwater dangerous?
Floodwater should be treated as contaminated. It can contain sewage, chemicals, and debris, and may hide electrical hazards. Avoid contact and wear protective gear during cleanup.
Can hardwood floors be saved after a flood?
Sometimes, if exposure was short and the floor can be cleaned and dried, but contaminated floodwater often makes removal the safer choice. A moisture assessment helps make that call.