Flooding is a big issue for many people in the United States. According to Water Damage Defense, around 98 percent of basements in houses in the United States are prone to flooding and will experience water damage over their lifetime. And, regardless of how modest the flood is, it may be devastating and leave your property prone to damage and mold development.
Whether the flooding is caused by heavy rain, a backed-up sewage line, or a broken pipe, it is critical to deal with the flood as quickly as possible to avoid more water damage. When dealing with home flooding, here are the first steps you should do.
Put your safety first.
Floodwater presents several hazards to your safety and health. The electricity that has come into touch with water can be lethal. Before you enter the floodwater, make sure to switch off the main breaker and any other individual fuses in your home. If the water level is too high, contact a certified electrician to examine and evaluate the condition of your electrical box. Don’t forget to put on safety gear like gloves, boots, and a mask. You don’t know what contaminates the water, therefore it’s important to protect oneself from any toxic substances that may be present.
If you have children, make sure they don’t eat items that have been in touch with water for a lengthy period of time. Transfer furniture and other salvageable things to a higher level.
Determine the cause of the flood and put a stop to it.
After you have switched off the main power supply, the following step is to determine the source of the flooding and prevent more water from entering your property. This will assist in preventing future water damage to your home. If a leaking or damaged pipe is the source of a house flood, switch off your home’s main water supply.
Take pictures of the damage.
Take a video or images of anything damaged by the floodwater before you begin removing it to clean up your property. Documenting the water damage is critical for insurance claims. Photograph the damaged goods, warped walls and floors, and other water damage in your property. Then, save a copy of every document you’ve given to your insurance agent.
Contact your insurance company.
Once you’ve gathered all of the appropriate documentation, contact your insurance company and advise them of the occurrence. After then, your insurance provider will dispatch an adjuster to check the damage and assess the losses.
Seek the assistance of a reputable water damage specialist.