Homeowners shudder at the thought of water seeping into their houses or floors. As if it were not enough of a nuisance, water damage opens the floodgates to a series of nightmares, ranging from normal wear and tear of the house to mold formation and other troubles. To achieve this, homeowners should know what water damage is and what to do afterward.
What is Water Damage?
In simple terms, water damage refers to water intruding on the inside of the house. It can be issued for many reasons, such as a water pipe bursting, roof leakage because of rains, water spitting from the bathroom sink and toilets, water from a washing machine or a dishwasher, sewage leakage, etc.
7 Actions to Take after Water Damage
Take Necessary Precautions
Floods wreak havoc in your home and are associated with the likelihood of electrocution, structural loss, and mold growth. Switch off electrical appliances to improve your safety and that of your family. In the case of severe water damage, it is advisable to turn off the power from its source.
Floods from excessive rainfall are filled with poisonous chemicals and bacteria, which can find their way into your drinking water supply. Do not drink the same water if you are unsure it is pure.
Find the Source
Once you have spotted visible water damage, it is vital to find the source. This will help prevent further damage. Look for pipe bursts, sewage functions, and roof leaks, which are some of the most common sources of water damage.
Once you have located the source, take the necessary precautions. If the source is a pipe burst, switch off the main water supply. For sewage system malfunctions, wait until the water subsides. Maintain a sewage cleaning routine to avoid water leakages in the future. In case of a roof leak, use plastic to cover the affected area temporarily until you call a professional to fix it.
List the Damaged Items
Documenting the damage is essential before you claim your insurance. Use your smartphone to take pictures and videos of the affected area. Note the items or materials damaged by the water and list their approximate value.
Contact your Insurance Provider
After you have completed taking the previous steps, make a call to your insurance company. Inform them about the water damage situation, and provide them with the list and cost of the damaged items with the photos you had clicked. Also, if you have consulted a repair service provider or shifted to a temporary lodging facility, keep all receipts handy. The insurance company might send an official to check the damage, who will guide you through the claim process.
Clean and Restore your Belongings
Consulting a professional water damage and restoration service is advisable. But if you are determined to start your DIY cleaning process, ensure that you wear protective clothing.
Remove essential materials like documents, photo frames, rugs, and furniture. Check the items damaged by water and clean and restore items that can be saved. If any of your items have been severely damaged, discard them immediately.
Start Water Removal and Drying
A DIY water removal and drying project can start by manually removing excess water with buckets or mugs. Once the water has reduced, you can dry it with a mop or fans. However, effective water removal and drying require specialized equipment, such as wet or dry vacuums, submersible pumps, and dehumidifiers. You may find most of these equipment in a hardware store. Look for renting options, as they will be cheaper than investing money in buying them.
Prevent Mold Growth
Mold growth is typical after water damage. It shows up on the surface within 24 to 48 hours. This is why it is essential to discard severely damaged material, clean and disinfect the place, and dry it thoroughly.
If you have diligently followed the above steps, be vigilant about small spots and musty odors until a week after the incident. Call for professional help if you notice mold growth.
Why Seek Professional Help?
We understand that DIY techniques can quickly address small leaks and minimal repairs. However, if the water damage is severe, DIY techniques might not provide a permanent fix.
The effects of severe water damage may include many challenges, such as still water providing a breeding ground for flies and mosquitos, mold growth posing severe health hazards to your family, and more.
You must consult a professional Toronto water damage repair service to avoid future risks and curb the problem at its root. These professionals hold the expertise and the right equipment to treat water damage. They offer a curated list of services, including water extraction, drying, humidification, mold remediation, restoration, and repair.
Conclusion
Water damage repair is a stressful process. It is difficult for homeowners to suffer the damage, look for DIY solutions, and handle insurance claims simultaneously. Sometimes, it is best to leave matters in the hands of professionals.
While these immediate steps might help you find temporary solutions, you must find a permanent cure. Contact ServeKings and we will help you get your property back in shape.
