Water damage is a homeowner’s nightmare. Whether it’s from a burst pipe, a natural disaster, or an overflowing toilet, water damage can wreak havoc on your home. In addition to the immediate destruction caused by the water, it can also lead to mold growth and other health hazards.
If you’ve recently experienced water damage in your home, don’t worry. In this article, we’ve outlined a 6-step guide on what to do to ensure the safety of your home and family.
Immediately turn off the water supply
The first and most crucial step in water damage mitigation is to turn off the water supply. This will prevent any further water from entering your home and causing more damage. The main water valve can be found in a few different places, depending on your home’s layout.
It is typically located in the basement, near the front foundation wall, or outside near the water meter. Turning off the water supply will also make it safer for you and your family to assess the damage.
Contact a specialist to evaluate the damage and create a strategy
It’s time to contact the experts after shutting off the water supply. As soon as you can, get in touch with a water damage restoration business.
They may evaluate the damage and create a strategy for sanitizing and repairing your house. They will be able to spot any dangers that might need quick treatment, like mold growth and structural damage.
Document all damaged items
Before cleaning up, it’s essential to document all damaged items. This is crucial for insurance purposes and will help ensure that you receive compensation for any losses. Take pictures or videos of everything that has been damaged by the water.
This includes furniture, carpets, appliances, electronics, and any other personal items. Be sure to also make a detailed list of the items and their estimated value.
Prioritize any items that need immediate attention
Prioritize everything that requires immediate treatment after documenting the damage. To stop the growth of mold, wet furniture and carpets should be dried as quickly as possible. Electronics that have been wet should be turned off and taken to a specialist for analysis.
To stop additional damage, any structural issues like cracks in the walls or ceilings should also be fixed right away.
Clean up visible debris from water damage
Once you’ve taken care of items that require immediate attention, it’s essential to clean up visible debris from the water damage. This includes removing any standing water and debris from floors and surfaces.
The longer water sits, the more damage it can cause, so it’s important to act quickly. Be sure to wear protective gear such as gloves and face masks while cleaning up to reduce the risk of exposure to harmful conditions.
Take preventative measures
Finally, take preventative measures to ensure that future water damage doesn’t occur. Waterproofing affected areas can help prevent future leaks and moisture buildup.
Installing new plumbing fixtures such as leak detectors and shut-off valves can help you detect and prevent leaks before they cause significant damage. Investing in a sump pump or backwater valve can also help protect your home from flooding during heavy rainstorms.