Water is an essential part of life as we use it for almost all daily activities. However, it can also be potentially dangerous, especially when it accumulates and has no means to escape. Homes located in low-lying areas or near water bodies are more prone to flood damage.
Flooding is one of the most common natural disasters that wreak havoc on homes. And dealing with flood damage can be very devastating; so, what should you do after your home is flooded with water? Read on.
- Protect yourself
Before anything else, assess the extent of the damage and the potential danger that it may pose to your health. Make sure you are also safe from any injuries before taking action. Dangerous situations to watch out for include combustibles, electrocution, and broken gas lines. If the flood causes a fire hazard, do not light candles or turn on pilot lights as water can cause electrical issues that lead to explosions or fires.
- Call your insurance cover
When floods destroy your home, it is imperative that you contact your insurance company and ask them how to proceed. Generally, they will direct you to their adjuster, who can assess the extent of damage and advise accordingly. However, note that dealing with insurance companies can sometimes be stressful as they may not be willing to cover every damage caused by flooding. Therefore, you must document each one carefully for your own reference.
- Start flood and water damage restoration
After contacting your insurance company, the next step is to start flood and water damage restoration. You need to dry the house immediately to eliminate any moisture that may cause further damage. This is where having a professional contractor can be beneficial as they will have the tools and equipment needed for the process. So much so, you can hire a reputable flood and water damage restoration company to do the job for you.
- Aid in cleaning up
Getting rid of the excess water is only the first step; you also need to clean up your house and remove all wet carpets, drywall, and furniture that has absorbed too much moisture. Also, break down any soaked walls and ceilings if necessary.
Be sure to dispose of any belongings that cannot be saved – especially if they have been exposed to sewage which can cause serious health problems. While this may sound like an impossible task, it is the best way to avert further damages caused by molds or bacteria. Note; however, flooding can sometimes lead to secondary damages requiring professional assistance, so it is best to consult a restoration company before taking the next step.
Take Away
It can be very difficult to deal with flood damage, especially when you are under immense stress. However, remember that it is imperative that you correctly deal with water damage to your house, or it may cause further harm. Lastly, when choosing a flood and water damage restoration company, make sure you choose one with a good reputation.