A flood can be caused by natural factor or due to bursting of a pipe, sewer backup, a faulty pipeline. But whatever the reason may be, a flood can cause massive damage and protecting your home from a flood is something to seriously consider. In this post, we will inform you on ways to go about handling your home flooding.
Flood water is not clean and cause many infections if it is not removed properly. Do not make any uninformed decision without thinking through about its consequence. Once the flood enters into the home there is a lot to consider. Let’s talk about what to do once that happens.
1) Restricting the source:
One of the first things to do once the flood has come into a particular location in your home is to stop the water from entering anywhere else. If the flooding is due to a leakage, then immediately turn of the water supply to stop the water.
If the flooding is because of heaving rainfall or a storm then contact the Disaster Relief in the area. This will inform them about the flooding scenarios. You will also want to ask them to clear the drains and remove all the waste from them to ensure smooth passage of water.
Nowadays, automatic shutoff valves which are used to reduce water damage in the home, ensure that the water does not spread all around the premises and is contained. You can also install these valves.
2) Check for Structural Damages:
Flood can come and strike with huge power. Damaging the structure of the home and all it’s beautiful home decor. Thus, it is essential to check to get your home inspected before you move back in.
Look for broken walls, floor or ceiling damage to ensure the structure of the building is safe. If there is some damage and you’re thinking maybe the building may collapse, then do not enter the premises. After your home flooding, you should immediately contact the remediation experts in your area.
If you encounter any gas leaks, water leaks or open electrical wires then contact your utility provider to restore it. Always stay away if you see any type of threat. Waiting for authorities to rectify it is a safer and wiser choice.
3) Document Everything:
Before cleaning your flooded home. Document your home by making videos and capturing pictures. These will help you in the process of insurance claim. They will help you in restoration process as well.
Record all the things during clean up in order to provide a better picture to your insurance company. This will document the type of damage that has happened. More pictures and videos will strengthen your point during the claim process.
4) Removing the water and Cleaning the place:
After the home flooding is gone and the situation is safe, it time to clean. Start by removing the standing water. You may need a wet vacuum or a pump to remove it, depending on the amount of water in the place. Avoid lifting to many buckets of water as it can harm your back and body.
If the water stays for too long, then mold may start to grow. Water will spoil the carpeting and furnishings in your house over a significant time period. It can destroy your important belongings as well. Which you would have had a chance of saving, otherwise.
It is advisable, to either rent a sump pump for this purpose or hire a professional company in your area, who deals in water damage. Since the faster the water is out, the lesser the home flooding damage can be.
Remove all the belongings that are unfit for use again. Dry the rest and disinfect them before using it again.
5) Call your insurance company:
Inform your insurance company as soon as the situation permits. Take documentation of all the damages, as they will help you in the process.
Explain to the insurance company about the home flooding situation. They will send a restoration company to evaluate and repair your home. Listen to the agent carefully about what information they will need to provide them with accurate information.
Do not start any repairs unless they have done the assessment and ensured the claim.
The Bottom Line
A flood can be challenging experience for you. It damages the place and things, with which, one may have an emotional and sentimental value. Don’t dispair, you are not alone in this process. You have the support of the authorities, the insurance company, and your loved ones.
A restoration company will help you restore your home, so that you can live your life happily once again.
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