Water or flood damage is among the most common disasters any property can experience. Whether it’s from a leaking roof, clogged plumbing, broken pipes, or some other natural disaster. Water damage can trigger problems with floorings, walls, upholstery, and even the structural stability of a home. Loss of property can be devastating; however, there is hope. Professional water damage restoration companies are experts and will restore a flood-damaged home to its original (if not better) condition.
Steps to Take After a Flood
The causes of flooding in homes are different. However, no matter the source of the issue, there are some steps you should take right away to clean up water damage and restore your property.
Return only if it is safe.
If your home has suffered major structural damage, you must stay until you have confirmation that it is safe to enter. Before entering your home, you have to ensure that your home’s electricity and water supplies are switched off. Because the water can be contaminated, you need to wear protective clothing and a mask even after it subsides. Also, keep in mind that the security of your home is your obligation whether you can enter or not.
Contact your insurance company.
The faster you do this after the flood, the better. You should know that you may not get any settlement if the water repair work starts before reporting the incident and documenting the damage. As you consult with the insurance agent, list down what you should do to file a claim. Usually, you will be asked to capture photos of the damage caused. You will need to photograph structural damage and damaged furniture, electronics and appliances, and personal effects.
Remove the water quickly.
Pathogens can also exist in Category 1 water (clear water without any visible contaminants). Mold begins to grow on moist surfaces within a day or two after flooding. For these reasons, the elimination of water should not be delayed. It’s better to seek professional service to ensure the job is done properly. Disinfection is also mandatory. This minimizes the risk of disease and mold development.
Have structural repairs made immediately.
Many of the surfaces of modern houses are porous, and they will soak up water. The list includes ceramic tile, wood, drywall, and grout. Therefore, structures must first be thoroughly checked for successful water damage restoration. If the water was eliminated immediately, it might not need to be replaced. Visit disaster restoration Spokane to find out more.
Check which furniture can be recovered.
Carpets and carpets must be dried. Otherwise, mold can grow on them, practically damaging them from the inside. After they are totally dry, they must be cleaned up thoroughly, ideally with products that can kill all pathogens and are, of course, safe for fibers and dyes. Finally, water damage restoration specialists need to inform you if the carpets and rugs can be restored in that condition. Visit this company for more information.
Conclusion
Storm floodings can create an unsafe environment for you and your family. You even need to move to another location during your property restoration, which in turn creates problems. Choosing an excellent restoration company that provides disaster recovery services can reduce outages. In addition, acting quickly and making wise decisions can help you get out of the situation faster.