Whether it is a burst pipe, storm, or washing machine malfunction, water damage can strike out of the blue. The end result is massive structural damage and high restoration bills. So, if you want to minimize the effect, you have to restore the house immediately, and for that, you have to follow a checklist. Here, we have listed all the essential steps to handle water damage to ensure property protection.
- Ensure Safety First
Your first priority should be safety. Mark all the affected areas of the house and turn off the electricity. This will help avoid electrical shocks and casualties. If you find that the floor of the house is contaminated due to flooding, evacuate the property and call the restoration team.
- Stop the Water Source
You must locate the source responsible for the flooding or water damage and shut the valve immediately. If you find a leaking pipe or appliance damage causing the flood, try to control the water flow, which would limit the damage. However, if the leakage is beyond your control, you must consult with a restoration service or water damage specialist for further assistance.
- Document the Damage
Before you start the cleanup process, you have to document every area of the house. Start by taking photos and videos of the affected areas, then report the damage to the floor and walls. You must also click the pictures of the damaged furniture and every other personal item affected by the water damage to produce the evidence while filing for the insurance claims.
- Contact a Professional Restoration Service
When you need thorough water damage restoration, you must consult with reputed and certifiedĀ home renovation contractors NYC, who are equipped to handle every level of water damage. They have the tools and equipment to assess the situation, remove contaminated water, and address mold and mildew growth issues. To simplify the process, you can hire a company that would assist you with insurance claims.
- Remove Standing Water
If you find that a DIY process can handle the water damage, then you need to use a few particular tools like wet/dry vacuums, mops, and towels; these will help to eliminate the standing water. However, you must employ industrial pumps for severe flooding, which will instantly extract water and prevent further damage.
- Dry the Area Completely
There is a high probability of mold growth after a flood, so it is crucial to implement a quick drying process. You have to keep the windows and doors open, try to use the fan, and run dehumidifiers to eliminate the excessive moisture content in the air. You can also seek help from a restoration company that utilizes advanced drying equipment to ensure complete drying even in hidden areas, preventing structural issues.
- Inspect for Mold Growth
Usually, mold develops in any building within 24 hours of water exposure, so it is essential to check for visible signs. If you detect any damp areas, immediately begin your investigation and consult a mold remediation expert who can handle the issue safely.
Final Words
Go through your belongings and take them to a dry area for proper evaluation. You might find that proper cleaning and drying can save some items from being discarded. Moreover, when you hire any professionals from zicklincontracting.comĀ for restoration, you can be rest assured that they are licensed and meet the repair safety standards.