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MILWAUKEE/NARI SUGGESTS TIPS FOR HOMEOWNERS EXPERIENCING FLOODING AND OTHER WEATHER-RELATED ISSUES
July 23, 2010

MILWAUKEE, WI – Members of the Milwaukee/NARI Home Improvement Council, Inc., the area’s leading home improvement and remodeling industry resource for more than 49 years, urges area homeowners who have flooded basements to stay out of these areas.

Entering the basements can be hazardous for two reasons: despite how clear the water may look, it is likely contaminated and it may be electrically charged, especially if the water covers wall outlets or other electric circuitry. Milwaukee/NARI members suggest homeowners wait for the water to drain or get an experienced and qualified contractor to pump out the water. If it is imperative to enter the basement, wear protective clothing and waders.

Milwaukee/NARI also is warning homeowners about being taken advantage of by unscrupulous contractors. “In the middle of a crisis, when homeowners can be emotional and vulnerable, they need to stay alert,” said Diane Ausavich, CR, Milwaukee/NARI President. “Do not let yourself be taken advantage of by an unqualified person posing as a legitimate contractor. For example, if someone knocks on your door and offers to clean-up your flooded basement and asks for full payment before they start work, that should be a red flag.”

If able, Milwaukee/NARI suggests moving cardboard boxes off the basement floor onto shelves or placing the items in plastic bins. In addition, make sure the drain hose from sump pumps is at least four feet away from the home’s foundation and directed away from the house.

As weather permits, Milwaukee/NARI experts suggest homeowners clean gutters, downspouts, and window wells of any debris, covering the window wells to keep out water. Plastic window well covers or even a piece of plywood over the well should be affixed and be secured, as they can help keep window wells from filling up.

For a list of qualified area contractors, contact Milwaukee/NARI at 414-771-4071 or visit www.milwaukeenari.org.

The Milwaukee/NARI Home Improvement Council was chartered in July 1961, as a Chapter of the National Home Improvement Council. In May of 1982, the National Home Improvement Council merged with the National Remodelers Association to form NARI – the National Association of the Remodeling Industry. The Council’s goals of encouraging ethical conduct, professionalism, and sound business practices in the remodeling industry have led to the remodeling industry’s growth and made NARI a recognized authority in that industry. With over 900 members, the Milwaukee Chapter is the nation’s largest.

For more information or to receive a free copy of an annual membership roster listing all members alphabetically and by category, and the booklet, “Milwaukee/NARI’s Remodeling Guide,” call (414) 771-4071 or visit the Council’s Web site at www.milwaukeenari.org.