7 Important Steps to Take if You Have a Water Damage
Flooding is a big enemy of every homeowner. Without swift action, water damage can lead to mold growth and even structural issues that can be very costly for homeowners to repair. In fact, the average water damage claim was $10,000 in 2017. That same year, insurance companies paid out $13 billion in water damage claims.
If you have water damage in your home, there are several steps you must take immediately to start the clean-up process.
If you are dealing with any kind of water damage and need assistance ASAP, contact us immediately! 847-777-4999
1. Determine the Source of the Leak or Water Damage
The first and most important step is to find the source of the leak or water damage. If you can, stop the leak. Otherwise, shut off the main water line to keep the damage from getting worse.
2. Remove Electronics and Valuables from the Area
Once you find the source of the leak or shut off the main water line, your next priority should be safety. Unplug and remove all electrical items from the area. Better yet, head to the breaker box and cut off the power to that area until clean-up is completed, and the area is fully dry.
Make sure that you remove any valuables from the area as well. If you have important documents or photos, take them to a safe, dry area.
3. Take Photos of the Flood Water Damage
Before you start the clean-up process, take photos of the area with the water. These photos are important for insurance purposes and serve as proof of the damage.
4. Remove as Much Water as Possible
Moisture is the enemy of every home. It takes just 24 hours for mold start growing in moist areas, so it’s important to act quickly if you find signs of water damage in your home.
Removing as much water as possible will help reduce the risk or slow the growth of mold. If you act quickly enough, there may be no need for water mitigation treatment.
Water removal can be an overwhelming process. Many homeowners simply don’t have the right equipment or knowledge to tackle this job properly. Because water damage is so costly, it’s typically best to bring in a professional crew to remove the water.
At Simple Flooring, we know how stressful it can be to deal with a flood or leak. Our emergency water damage services will be at your door quickly. This is an emergency, so you are treated as a top priority.
We come with all of the equipment and knowledge needed to deal with water damage. We’ll even deal with your insurance company, so you can focus on getting your home back in order.
5. Remove and Replace Water Damaged Flooring
Flooring may be damaged in a flood, and it will need to be removed and replaced as soon as possible. In cases of severe flooding, more extensive work may need to be done to ensure that mold doesn’t grow and that the flooring remains properly in place.
Most flooring products will be damaged by a flood. Hardwood and laminate flooring are among the most sensitive to water damage and moisture in general. Tiles, for example, can loosen because of a flood and need to be replaced to reduce any risk to the homeowner.
6. Dry Out the Area
Removing any lingering moisture and water is your top priority. If possible, open windows and doors to allow air to circulate through the space. Multiple types of equipment may be necessary, too, such as:
- Sump pump
- Wet/dry shop vac
- Dehumidifier
Desiccants, such as clay, may also be used to absorb some of the moisture. Rugs and furniture may need to be removed, and you may need to remove all of the insulation under the floors if they’re wet.
You’ll also need to open cabinet doors, remove drawers and open doors to allow for natural air flow.
7. Contact Your Insurance
Water damage is expensive to remedy, so you’ll want to contact your homeowner’s insurance policy to fund the cleanup process. Your insurer will cover sudden, accidental damage such as a pipe bursting.
If a flood occurred and you don’t have floor water damage insurance, you may have to pay for the expenses out of pocket.
At Simple Flooring, we offer emergency water damage services that make your water damage a top priority. We deal with all forms of water damage, come equipped with the right tools for the job and also deal with the insurance company on your behalf.
Let us help you take the stress out of your water emergency.
