Water damage is one of the most devastating things to deal with as a homeowner. Whether it comes to a leaky roof, burst pipe, or a flooded basement, water damage needs immediate attention because its effects can be long-lasting. If the issue isn’t resolved, mold can start growing, and your furniture and other valuable assets may get damaged.
So, what should you do when you experience water damage in your home? It can be challenging to make a quick decision, but there are a variety of viable solutions.
This blog discusses a few of the best steps you can take should you experience water damage in your home. We will also explore the detailed meaning of water damage, so you can make an informed decision if your home is insured. Let’s read on
What Is Considered Water Damage?
Water damage refers to any destruction caused by:
- An overflowing toilet
- Broken gutter or pipe
- Hail storm
- Rain
- Leaky roof
- Condensation
Often, homeowners can take weeks or months to notice water damage, especially when caused by small, but prolonged leaks.
You should act fast when you notice any sign of water damage. Not only can the water affect your furniture, but it can also damage your carpets, ceilings, important documents, and other valuables. At times, you may even need to relocate to pave the way for repairs and renovations if the damage is extensive.
How to Handle Water Damage in Your Home
Follow these effective steps to control further water damage in your home:
1. Locate the Water Source
Initially, you must identify where the water is coming from. After doing so, you can easily control the water from causing more damage by limiting water flow to that area. This can be completed by switching off the water or creating a barricade.
You can identify the potential water source by looking at the color when the water is flowing:
- Clear: Rainwater or clean water coming from faucets or a burst pipe.
- Gray: Washing machine, dishwasher, or other household appliance.
- Black: Contaminated and coming directly from the sewer. Blackwater tends to have a foul smell and may contain harmful bacteria
2. Inform Your Insurance Company
You should call your insurer immediately if you have a homeowner’s policy for water damage. Depending on the type of policy you have, the insurance firm should send an adjuster to assess the damage and determine whether you qualify for compensation.
In the meantime, you should take photos, videos, and gather any other proof of water damage to support your insurance claim application. Insurers need evidence to prove that you actually incurred a loss as a result of water damage
3. Dry Surface to Protect Your Valuables
Next, you must focus on clearing the area to protect yourself and your assets. Here are a few things that you can do:
- Turn off the electrical appliances: Water can cause severe damage to your electrical appliances. You must turn the appliances off and cut the main power source immediately.
- Dry the surface: Lift rugs, furniture, and other structures that sit on the surfaces of your home. Mold and mildew can grow very fast in wet areas, making it vital that all surfaces are dried in a timely manner
- Remember to protect yourself: Wear gloves and boots to stay safe from cold temperatures, and any harmful bacteria that may be present on surfaces.
Don’t hesitate to hire experts for the cleaning and drying process – especially if you live in a larger home. Experts have the right tools to provide remarkable results within a short time.
4. Inspect the House for Mold and Hidden Moisture
After taking proper precautions to dry your home, it’s vital that you schedule a mold inspection. At times, out of reach areas may be hiding moisture or mold, which can pose health risks to you and your family. That’s why it’s important to schedule an inspection before you start the repair process.
5. Repair the Damage
The water damage repair process can start as soon as 24 hours after the incident. If you are insured, you may document the whole process and track the costs you spend on the process for compensation. If the damage was extensive, the repair experts might need to remove the flooring, insulators, siding, or drywall to ensure no moisture or mold remains in your home.
6. Disinfect
It’s recommended to consider disinfecting your home following water damage, especially if the water damage was extensive. A simple bleach solution can be enough, but you can also hire out for disinfecting services or choose a more advanced solution. The key is to ensure your home is completely safe before you go back.
7. Move Back To Your House
When the repair process is complete, the insurer has assessed the area, and you have restored everything, it’s time to move back into your home. The time you take to move back to your home varies according to the extent of the damage, materials affected, and the speed of your restoration contractor.
Contact Advantage Construction Team for Water Damage Repair
Don’t wait to act; if you have noticed water damage in your home, seek help immediately and follow the comprehensive steps above.
A reputable contractor experienced in water damage repairs can help you restore your home in no time.
If you’re worried about water damage in your home, contact the team at Advantage Construction today for a free inspection. Our goal is to repair your home, restore your assets, and help you get back to normal life.
