Common Causes of Flooding in Houston
Houston's proximity to the Gulf Coast makes the city vulnerable to heavy rainfall, hurricanes, and storm surges. The city’s urban landscape, characterized by paved streets and limited natural drainage, relies on storm drains to funnel away water. Storm drains can become overwhelmed during heavy rain, putting nearby structures at risk of flooding. Storm surge up the Houston Ship Channel during hurricanes is also possible—a risk that increases with hurricane strength.
In addition to storms, plumbing problems also cause flooding. Like any city, Houston experiences burst pipes and sewer backups in residences and commercial facilities. Did you know that burst washing machine hoses are the most common cause of interior residential flooding? Dishwashers and refrigerator water lines are also responsible for a significant amount of residential flood damage. These localized floods can severely damage property and require immediate water removal and drying services to mitigate damage and reduce health risks.
Insurance Assistance
Filing an insurance claim for flood damages can be a laborious process. Roto-Rooter meticulously documents every phase of our water removal process. Our record-keeping helps streamline the insurance claim process, taking some of the pressure off you during a stressful time.
Roto-Rooter's Emergency Flood Services
Why choose Roto-Rooter as your first choice for water removal in Houston? Our seasoned water removal experts combine swift response times with extensive plumbing experience and access to industry-leading professional-grade equipment. The result is an efficient resolution of your water emergency and a return to normalcy as soon as possible.
Roto-Rooter offers the following water removal services in Houston:
Water Extraction and Removal
Basement Flood Cleanup Service
Mold Remediation and Flood Cleanup
Water Damage and Sewage Cleanup Service

LEAVE PLUMBING TO THE PROS
BECAUSE WITH ROTO-ROOTER, YOU GET MORE THAN A GUARANTEE.
- REPUTATION
Highly-trained professionals since 1935. A job done right by the original experts.
- TRANSPARENCY
No hidden or extra charges for plumbing or drain service on holidays, nights, and weekends.
- EFFICIENCY
Same-day and emergency service 365 days a year.
- QUALITY
Full-service plumbing, drain cleaning, and water cleanup – using state-of-the-art diagnostics and equipment.
- FINANCING
Get it fixed today and take time to pay. Special financing options available.
SPECIAL FINANCING AVAILABLE
We have partnered with Synchrony Bank to offer financing options to make your plumbing repair expenses as convenient and stress-free as possible.
Tips for Flood Preparedness
While it's impossible to entirely eliminate the risk of a water emergency, there are measures you can take to minimize flood damage. Here are some straightforward flood preparedness guidelines:
Assess Your Flood Risk
Determine your risk of flooding in advance. The FEMA Flood Map Service Center can help you determine whether your home or business is located in a flood-prone area.
Take out a Flood Insurance Policy
Many people are unaware that standard home or business insurance policies do not cover flood damage. Contact your insurance agent to verify whether you have flood insurance and, if not, determine an appropriate coverage level.
Enroll in Emergency Alert Systems
Register for local weather and flood alerts and notifications from the Emergency Alert System and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Weather Radio.
Preventative Maintenance for Floods
Regularly clean gutters and drains to prevent blockages and potential flooding from drains, sump pumps, gutters, and water heaters. Roto-Rooter can provide inspections and maintenance to increase your plumbing system's efficiency. Additionally, you can learn how to perform basic plumbing tasks, such as how to fix leaking pipes until professional plumbers arrive.
Take Inventory of Property and Valuables
Create an inventory of possessions by taking pictures or videos of your home contents and storing them online. A visual record of your belongings is invaluable when filing an insurance claim after any disaster, including floods, and serves as proof of ownership.
Safeguard Important Documents
Store documents like birth certificates, medical records, wills, insurance papers, and passports in a waterproof container. Consider using waterproof safety deposit boxes for added protection.
Above all, prioritize your safety. Avoid contact with sewage water and avoid wading through floodwaters, especially if you suspect a risk of electrocution. Relocate to higher ground and contact professional assistance promptly.