Storm Drain Backed Up into Your Basement? Here's What to Do

If stormwater just pushed its way into your basement, you're not alone—and you're definitely not out of luck. When heavy rain overwhelms the storm drains in Grove City or Columbus, that water often finds the path of least resistance—straight into your basement. Here’s exactly what you need to do to protect your home, your health, and your wallet.

Step 1: Stop the Water and Stay Safe

First things first: don’t wade into water you can’t see through. If the water is deep or near electrical panels or appliances, call your utility company or a licensed electrician before stepping in.

• Shut off power to affected areas if safe

• Wear gloves and waterproof boots

• Don’t flush toilets or use sinks until the backup clears

If water is still coming in, call your local public works department. A clogged city storm drain may need immediate attention.

Step 2: Call a Local Water Damage Pro (That’s Us)

Time matters. Within 24-48 hours, mold starts to grow in wet basements. That’s why we treat storm drain backups as an emergency. At Total Home Water Restoration, we:

• Extract water fast

• Disinfect affected areas

• Dry walls, floors, and furniture thoroughly

• Check for hidden moisture in walls, subfloors, and insulation

Our crews are based right here in Grove City and respond quickly across Franklin County.

Step 3: Document the Damage for Insurance

Before you start tossing anything:

• Take clear photos of water lines, damaged walls, flooring, and belongings

• Save receipts for cleanup supplies or professional services

• Note the time and date of the backup and the rainfall amount (check local weather logs if needed)

Your homeowners insurance might cover the damage, but it depends on your policy. If you have a sump pump rider or water backup endorsement, you’re in better shape.

Step 4: Watch for Mold—and Act Fast

Even after the water’s gone, moisture lingers. That’s where mold thrives, especially in hidden spots like behind drywall or under carpet padding.

We follow IICRC S520 mold remediation standards, meaning we remove not just the mold—but the moisture problem that caused it.

Step 5: Prevent It from Happening Again

A storm drain backup once is bad luck. Twice? That’s a problem.

Here's what we recommend:

• Install a backwater valve (code-compliant under IRC Section P3008.1)

• Grade your yard away from the house

• Have gutters and downspouts inspected

• Get your sump pump checked and add a battery backup

If your basement’s already been hit, we also offer waterproofing, sump pump upgrades, and full drywall/flooring replacement.

Need Storm Drain Backup Cleanup in Grove City or Columbus?

Call Total Home Water Restoration at 380-246-1837. We’re local, licensed, and ready to handle storm water damage fast—so you can get back to normal without the stress.

Address: 4141 Hoover Rd, Grove City, OH 43123
Owner: Tyler Zimmerman
Service Areas: Grove City, Columbus, Hilliard, Galloway, Dublin, Westerville, Reynoldsburg, and surrounding areas.