Four Steps Homeowners Can Take When Water Damage Occurs

10/9/2020 (Permalink)

Here are some important steps to take when assessing water damage in your home.

Whether you experience a significant storm or broken pipe, there are many reasons why your home might face sudden water damage. While these events are concerning, acting quickly can help you reduce the amount of water damage restoration that you’ll need. To help you protect your home and minimize repair costs, here are several strategies to follow when these emergencies happen.

How Should Homeowners Handle Water Damage?

1. Locate & Stop the Source of Water

As soon as you notice a problem, locate the source of the moisture and try to keep the water from spreading. For example, if the issue is coming from a broken pipe, shut off the coordinating water supply valve. Or, if you have a roof leak, put a bucket under the problem area and a tarp around the area. Next, call a professional contractor to provide a permanent fix.

2. Contact Your Insurance Company

After stopping the issue, you should begin filing a claim with your insurance provider. They will likely require pictures and documentation of the damage, so photograph the affected area and send them when requested. The sooner you take this step, the easier it will be to evaluate the damage and receive compensation. In some cases, homeowner’s insurance policies will cover the cost of water damage restoration and necessary repairs.

3. Remove the Moisture

Next, you should call water damage restoration professionals to clean up the water and all traces of moisture from the home. This will prevent stains and mildew from spreading to other areas, minimizing the damage that the water can cause. Your restoration company will use high-powered extraction tools to clean and protect your carpet. These professionals will also employ large fans to dry out surfaces while they are working.

4. Inspect for Mold

When your contractors leave, look around the affected areas for signs of mold. Typically, you will notice green or black spots on moist surfaces and a musty odor in the room. Without prompt attention, mold will spread throughout the house, causing health effects. However, mold can also cause structural damage, as it eats organic material. Fortunately, mold remediation services will remove the fungal growth and prevent it from returning.