Flooding is a widespread problem that damages your property and is a costly type of disaster worldwide, especially in the USA. But flooding is of two types, one that occurs due to natural calamities and the other water damage can happen because of several plumbing or HVAC unit problems. Some of these causes are burst sewer lines, leaking pipes, HVAC leaks, etc.
The situation of water damage is very stressful when any of the homeowners feel helpless, and their thinking power stops because of potential damage. But, if your home is affected by water damage, it becomes essential to take some quick steps to minimize the damage so that the property can be made safe once again.
But before we discuss some of the flood damage restoration steps, you must know what exactly flood damage restoration is?
Flood restoration is the process by which your property will turn the way it was before the damage occurred. It is the specialized service offered by a group of professionals that remove water from the home or business and restore it to livable and pre-damaged condition.
It is quite understandable that when water damage occurs, everyone feels panicked, but it is essential to realize you have to act promptly as you can. The reason is that the longer you wait, the more damage will take more time to clean.
What does water damage affect?
Water is critical to life, but when it starts destroying things, it will leave you with a great mess that becomes difficult to clean. As the homeowner, it is vital you to understand what are the different areas that can be affected by water damage in your property. So, to be safe, always inspect the below areas of your home after water damage: –
- Insulation
- Wood
- Drywall
- Plaster
- Pipes
- Framing
- Floor coverings
- Appliances
- Electrical wiring
- HVAC
How to deal with a water damage situation?
The flood damage and restoration clean-up process are no doubt very overwhelming. But thankfully, if you follow the below tips and tricks in a water damage situation, things look easier, make the whole process efficient, and pull down the cost. Let’s get started with some water damage restoration steps: –
Inform your insurance company
In case of water damage, the first step is to contact your insurance adjuster as soon as possible. After that, begin the cleanup, salvage, and drying process immediately after taking the photos of damage which can be used for inventory.
Moreover, clean the house so that the adjuster can see the damage and keep all the damaged material for proof of loss. Once the adjuster arrives at your property, they will assess damages, and after that, they will ask you to sign a proof of loss statement. Some of the additional damage can be added when it is found.
Inspect mold
There are certain mold strains that are toxic to humans and pose a severe threat to human life. In some cases, mold can spread very quickly because of which you have to inspect its growth in order to avoid any health hazards.
However, if there is a small mold-infected area, then you can cut it out, bag it, and dispose of it as soon as possible. But in severe cases, you have to call a mold specialist as they will first inspect the whole property and then do the needful.
Dry out the affected area
Once you have removed all the flood water and cleaned it thoroughly, it’s time to dry your home. However, this step can be exhaustive as the clean-up process should be done immediately so that moisture-related issues cannot create rotting and mold growth.
To dry the home, follow the below steps: –
First of all, let air circulate in your home, which you can do by opening doors and windows.
After that, take out all the water-damaged furniture, carpets, etc., and dry them under the sun.
Here you can rent high-powered fans or blowers so that the drying process will be fast.
Moreover, if you cannot do all these things yourself, you must call a water orFlood Restoration San Diego to do the needful.
Stop the water at its source.
If the flooding is due to an act of nature, then you cannot do anything. But if the water damage source is your own home, immediately turn off or seal the primary source.
This step comes at the first position, and after that, only you can do the further work.
Disconnect the power, unplug any electronics
Before you start the cleanup process, make sure to shut down the main power supply of your home. The reason is if your home is severely damaged by flood, electrocution can be a severe threat. However, to ensure safety keep the below things in mind: –
Never try to reconnect any electrical appliances as they are already ruined by water. That means you can use them after any licensed electricians check them.
Don’t touch any electrical equipment with wet hands or while standing on the wet surface.
Do not enter the flood-damaged basement until an electrician gives a green signal.
When to call a professional for flood damage restoration?
When flood or water damage occurs in your home, you will quickly know whether your water damage clean-up needs professionals or you can tackle it on your own. But, if you think that the cleanup process is tricky, feel free to contact a flood damage restoration professional.
Calling them can help put your mind at ease because you know very well they will do all the work with full satisfaction, because of which you will get back to your normal routine faster. But while choosing the company for flood damage restoration, make sure to do some research beforehand.
The bottom line
Water damage is undoubtedly a very serious situation that must be handled wisely and carefully so that your dream house will be saved from severe damage. So, follow the above steps if your home will face such a situation in the future.
I hope this post will help you make the right decision!
Peter Beaumont is a senior reporter on the Guardian’s Global Development desk. He has reported extensively from conflict zones including Africa, the Balkans and the Middle East and is the author of The Secret Life of War: Journeys Through Modern Conflict. Email: peter@thehearus.com
