Water damage may happen to anybody at any time, from a burst pipe, leaking roof, or unexpected flood. While feeling overwhelmed is normal, you can avoid more harm by taking immediate action.
So, what should you do after water damage occurs due to water unexpectedly entering your house? Stay calm! Making the appropriate decisions right away can significantly impact fixing damage in your home and speeding up the restoration process.
Water Damage Emergency Steps: Prioritize Safety
First, prioritize everyone’s safety. To reduce the chance of receiving an electric shock, turn off the power right once if there is water close to any outlets or appliances.
Also, if it is causing severe damage or the water has been polluted, evacuating the area and hiring experts is preferable. In any case, safety should always come first.
Stop the Source to Prevent Further Damage
More physical intervention will be required to stop the source from splattering water after the flooding or pipe burst. Distance from the area with a leak, or turn off the main water supply.
Do your best to block the water for roof leaks or heavy rain until professionals can assess the situation temporarily. This is one of the most critical and immediate steps for water damage in a house.
Document the Damage for Insurance Claims
Before commencing cleanup, document everything in photos and videos, including the affected zones. This evidence will be beneficial when filing an insurance claim.
Covering all apparent damage will make recouping the repair costs easier when pursuing insurance.
Start Removing: Quick Post-Water Damage Actions
The next step in restoring damage is removing most of the water on the surface. Afterward, you must sweep the water using mop heads, towels, and a vacuum.
Also, you may need to employ specialized equipment for significant sinkage floods. Acting quickly will lessen the chances of mildew growing and the destruction of the house’s structure.
Understanding the dangers of mold growth is crucial here. Mold can develop within 24-48 hours and, if not addressed promptly, lead to severe health and structural issues.
Dry the Area Thoroughly
When the excess water is removed, it is time to dry the structure. Open windows set up fans, and use dehumidifiers to circulate air and remove moisture.
Where water has penetrated the carpets, walls, and even furniture, they would need to be removed or dried out to prevent water-related problems such as mold from developing.
Water Damage Repair Tips: Call in the Pros
However, water damage can be much worse than what appears on the surface. Unseen moisture is a real problem that can cause mold growth and eventually impair the home’s structure.
An emergency response to water damage is crucial to address these hidden risks. Ensure that all necessary repairs, including cleaning, have been completed to ensure your family’s safety and that all home parts that have sustained damage have been sealed to prevent further damage after flooding.
How to Handle Water Damage Quickly with Your Insurance Provider
After dealing with such a dire emergency, you should report the damage to your insurance provider.
Follow up with the documents you have and request what they think is next in line. They often send an adjuster to inspect the damage and help with repair costs.
Prevent Future Water Damage
After your house has been repaired, you should take precautions against further water damage. You should regularly inspect the various drainage systems, pipelines, and the roof of the home.
Consider using a backflow valve or sump pump as a preventive measure against the occasional annoyance of flooding. These easy-to-implement submeasures will help you avoid future damage.
Conclusion
Water damage can escalate quickly, but taking immediate action can help reduce its impact. Prioritize safety, stop the source, document the damage, and start drying your home as soon as possible.
For peace of mind and thorough restoration, it’s always best to call professionals. Need help? Contact EnviroTech Solutions today to schedule a free consultation and restore your home to its best condition.