Flash Flood Preparedness Chicago – How to Protect Your Home

Published by ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons

Flash floods in Chicago aren’t just inconvenient—they’re dangerous, fast, and increasingly common. If you live in the city or suburbs like Evanston, Skokie, Glenview, or Oak Park, you’ve likely seen heavy storms overwhelm sewers, back up basements, or cause street-level flooding. But is your home actually ready for the next one?

In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly how to protect your home—and your family—before, during, and after a flash flood.

Why Flash Flooding Happens So Often in Chicago

Chicago’s aging infrastructure, dense development, and changing climate have made it one of the Midwest’s most flood-prone metro areas.

Key contributors:

• Combined sewers: Many older neighborhoods share storm and wastewater lines, which overflow easily in heavy rain.
• Flat terrain: Little elevation change means water has nowhere to go.
• Hard surfaces: Paved streets, driveways, and sidewalks prevent rainwater from soaking into the ground.

FACT: According to the National Weather Service, Cook County has experienced over 45 major flood events since 2000.

Flood Watch vs. Flash Flood Warning

Many homeowners confuse the different flood alerts, but understanding the terminology can help you respond faster and stay safer.

• Flood Watch = Conditions are favorable for flooding → Stay alert, check your sump pump
• Flash Flood Watch = Flooding is likely and can happen fast → Prepare to act immediately
• Flash Flood Warning = Flooding is happening or imminent → Get to higher ground now

Tip: Sign up for Wireless Emergency Alerts or use apps like FEMA, AccuWeather, or Ready Illinois.

Top 10 Ways to Flood-Proof Your Home

• Install a sump pump with battery backup
• Clean gutters and downspouts regularly
• Seal foundation cracks and basement windows
• Install a sewer backflow prevention valve
• Cover window wells
• Grade landscaping away from the home
• Raise utilities and appliances off the basement floor
• Use smart water sensors
• Store valuables in plastic bins
• Maintain documentation of all improvements

Bonus Tip: Schedule an annual plumbing inspection.

Your Emergency Flood Supply Checklist

• Flashlights & batteries
• Portable phone chargers
• Waterproof boots & gloves
• First aid kit
• Sump pump alarm
• Wet/dry vacuum
• 5-gallon buckets & towels
• Waterproof document bags

Does Insurance Cover Flash Flooding?

No. Standard homeowners insurance doesn’t cover flood damage.

To be protected:

• Purchase a policy through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)
• Add a water backup endorsement
• Take photos of your home and belongings pre-storm

📖 Learn more in:RESTORE: A Complete Guide to Protecting Your Home As Your Most Valuable Asset

What To Do During a Flash Flood

• Stay upstairs—avoid basements
• Shut off power if safe
• Avoid walking through floodwater
• Listen for evacuation orders
• Keep children and pets away from floodwater

Floodwater can contain sewage, bacteria, and toxins.

What to Clean or Replace After a Flood

Replace:

• Soaked drywall, carpet, insulation
• Upholstered furniture touched by floodwater
• Cardboard, paper goods

Clean & Disinfect:

• Concrete floors and walls
• Wood framing with antimicrobials
• HVAC systems

Mold starts growing in 24–48 hours.

When to Call ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons

Call us if:

• There’s 2+ inches of standing water
• You suspect gas or electrical danger
• Structural materials are soaked
• You need help with insurance documentation

We provide:

• 24/7 emergency response
• Certified water mitigation experts
• Direct insurance billing
• Structural drying, cleanup & reconstruction

(847) 316-9145 | Contact Us Online

Why Trust ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons?

• 40+ years serving Chicagoland
• IICRC Master Water Restorers
• RIA Member
• Responded to major disasters: Katrina, Sandy, Harvey, Texas Freeze
• Locally trusted, nationally recognized

FAQ: Flash Flood Preparedness in Chicago

Q: What areas of Chicago are most flood-prone?

A: Older neighborhoods with combined sewers like Albany Park, West Ridge, and parts of Logan Square tend to flood most often.

Q: How quickly can mold grow after a basement flood?

A: Mold can start within 24–48 hours, so it’s crucial to act fast.

Q: Is basement flood cleanup covered by insurance?

A: Only if you have flood insurance or water backup coverage. Standard policies do not include flood cleanup.

Q: Can I clean up a flooded basement myself?

A: Light cleanup is possible, but professional restoration is strongly recommended for anything more than an inch or two of water.

Q: What should I do first if my basement is flooding?

A: Shut off electricity (if safe), stop water entry if possible, and call ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons.

About ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons

ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons is Chicagoland’s trusted leader in water damage restoration, flood cleanup, and emergency disaster response. With over 40 years of local service and deep roots in the community, we’ve helped thousands of homeowners and businesses recover from flash floods, sewage backups, and severe storm events.

We are:

• IICRC Certified: Master Water, Fire, and Textile Restorers
• RIA Members: Proud to follow the highest restoration standards
• Locally Owned: Based in Chicago with teams serving the North Shore, Oak Park, River Forest, and surrounding suburbs
• Nationally Proven: Responded to Hurricane Katrina, Hurricane Ike, Superstorm Sandy, and the Texas Freeze

Led by owner Sam Simon—an industry veteran and co-author of RESTORE: A Complete Guide to Protecting Your Home As Your Most Valuable Asset—our company combines technical expertise with compassionate service. When disaster strikes, we’re here to restore your home and peace of mind.

Learn more at ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons or call us at (847) 316-9145.