subject: Flooding And Water Damage - 5 Helpful Tips [print this page] If your home has been the victim of flooding or water damage of any kind, it can seem as though there is no hope in sight. Whether the flooding has come in as part of a storm or a plumbing failure makes little difference; your home and belongings don't know the difference. While the causes may become important when it comes to insurance and making sure this doesn't happen again in the future, your primary concern right now is rescuing and restoring as much of your stuff as possible. Here are five helpful tips to remember as you move forward.
Safety First
The first and most important tip as it pertains to dealing with water damage is to keep safety in mind at all times. Often, flooding is accompanied and the cause of further problems such as structural issues that can create hazards. Make sure the proper authorities have cleared your home before you attempt to go inside. Once you are inside, take the proper precautions. Remember, electricity and flooding don't mix well.
Take Extensive Photos
You will probably want to start the cleanup and restoration process before the insurance company can come out to assess the water damage. But you'll want photographs to show the inspector so you can be properly compensated. Talk to your insurance company before you go forward with restoration as well. The last thing you want to do is void your coverage in some way.
Ventilation
Proper ventilation is essential if you want to start drying up your home. Open all the windows you can and even keep the doors open if possible. If you have a screen door, this is the time to make use of it. With electricity, the drying process can begin much more quickly as you can start running big fans. Once again, remember to be very cautious about electricity around the areas of flooding.
Use the Outdoors
Under normal circumstances, your front yard would be the last place you would want your furniture and other belongings, but this is the place for them if you want them to dry out quickly. Be cautious about putting them in direct sunlight, however, as this can fade and discolor certain things.
Call the Professionals
Don't hesitate to call out a professional water damage restoration company. If you can afford it (or your insurance company will pay for it), you'll see they have methods to save a lot more of your furniture and home than you would ever be able to do on your own.
