Water Damage Restoration in Forest Park, IL
Forest Park has the Des Plaines River on its west side and an older combined sewer under its streets. When a storm floods basements or businesses, call and we will help you get dry.
- Water removal and drying
- Sewer backup cleanup
- Photos and moisture logs for insurance
Before help arrives
Then call. We will take it from there.
- 1Shut off the main water valve if the leak is from plumbing.
- 2Turn off power to wet rooms, only if you can reach the breaker without standing in water.
- 3Photograph the damage before you move anything.
- 4Move valuables and electronics to a dry room.
Why do Forest Park basements flood?
Forest Park's older combined sewers back up into basements when heavy rain fills them. On July 2, 2023, about six inches fell in 12 hours, and many basements flooded even though the Des Plaines River stayed in its banks. The village has started separating storm sewers to reduce the problem.
Last updated .
Why Forest Park homes take on water
Forest Park is small and dense, with older homes, two-flats and apartment buildings, and a busy Madison Street business district. The Des Plaines River runs through the village's west side, past its large cemeteries.
Sewer backups in heavy rain
The village's combined sewers fill fast in a heavy storm. On July 2, 2023, the village recorded about six inches of rain in 12 hours. The river did not overflow, but many basements still flooded, and the Eisenhower Expressway was underwater between Desplaines and Circle avenues for much of the day. The mayor called the flooding record-breaking.
Sewer separation work
Forest Park has begun separating storm water from its combined sewers so rain can drain to the river instead of into basements. Officials credit that work with reducing some damage in 2023, but separation is expensive and not finished.
Madison Street businesses
Shops and restaurants along Madison Street often have apartments above and storage below. Basement backups and leaks from upper floors are common calls for these buildings.
Where we work in Forest Park
Crews cover all of Forest Park, including:
- Madison Street
- Roosevelt Road
- Desplaines Avenue
- Near the Blue Line terminal
- Circle Avenue
- Harlem Avenue
- Near the Des Plaines River
Travel time
Northwest of Cicero, usually 10 to 15 minutes. Call for a realistic arrival time.
Call now: (708) 360-8574Most requested in Forest Park
Sewer backup cleanup in Forest Park
For storm water that comes up through basement drains.
Commercial water damage on Madison Street
For shops, restaurants and mixed-use buildings.
Forest Park storm and flood damage cleanup
For flash flooding and high water near the Des Plaines River.
See every water damage service we offer in Forest Park.
Water damage questions from Forest Park
Does the Des Plaines River flood Forest Park homes?
It can in a major river flood, but most recent basement flooding in Forest Park has come from sewers backing up in heavy rain, as in July 2023.
Should I install a backflow valve?
For a home with basement drains on a combined sewer, a backflow preventer or overhead sewer is the most effective protection. A licensed plumber should install it, and the village may require a permit.
Can a Madison Street business stay open during cleanup?
Often, if the wet area can be sectioned off safely. Sewage in customer areas usually means closing them until cleaned.
How long does it take to get to Forest Park?
Usually 10 to 15 minutes from Cicero. Expressway flooding can add time during big storms.
Also serving nearby
Sources
- Forest Park Review: Sunday flooding brings Ike to a halt (July 2023)
- Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago: Flood Resource Guide
- U.S. EPA: A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture and Your Home
General information only, not insurance or legal advice.
Water damage in Forest Park? Call now.
Shut off the water if you can do it safely, keep away from wet outlets, and call. We will talk you through the next few minutes and get help moving.