If it’s a natural disaster flood Damage, then obviously these circumstances are out of your control, but if the flood has been caused by a leak within the premises, to prevent further flood damage, you should first try to identify the source of the problem and resolve it as soon as possible. Here are some of our top tips of dos and don’ts in a handy flood damage infographic so that you can stand the best chance of salvaging your items while avoiding further Flood damage to your belongings and property.
WHAT TO DO
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Shut off the water supply
If the flood was not caused by a natural disaster and instead originated within the property, the first thing you should do is turn off the water supply as soon as possible to prevent further flooding.
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Turn off the electricity
To eliminate the risk of any accidents in the vicinity of the flooded area, turn off the main supply so that no power is supplied to the building.
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Evidence
It is critical that you provide evidence of the damage done for your insurance claim. This is best accomplished by logging photographic evidence and creating a backup in case the original files are corrupted.
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Remove standing water
Anywhere there is standing water, remove it as soon as possible. Use buckets to remove any large amounts of water, and towels to mop up and dry any other areas where there are still patches of water.
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Be aware of slipping hazards
The transition from a wet area to too hard or vinyl flooring creates a significant slipping hazard. When walking on hard flooring, use extra caution, or place some old mats down for extra traction.
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Remove valuable items
Ensure that all valuables are removed from the affected area. This could include things like paintings, artwork, family photo albums, books, magazines, and so on.
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Open all cabinet drawers and doors
To allow the furniture to dry, all cabinet drawers and doors must be fully opened. If they do not open easily, it is possible that they have swollen due to water absorption; in this case, do not force them open.
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Open all windows and doors
Allow the air to circulate and dry the room by opening all windows and doors. For the best results, open windows in cool weather and turn on air conditioning units in hot weather.
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Minimize the damage
Reduce the amount of damage. Water damage can leave you feeling completely helpless, but there are things you can do in the first 24 hours to keep things from getting worse. Consider the advice we provided earlier. Flooded areas should be ventilated as soon as possible. Move everything you can away from the leak’s source and any affected areas. Dry everything you can.
WHAT NOT TO DO
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Use a vacuum
When it comes to cleaning up standing water, a vacuum cleaner should never be used instead of a mop. This method is not only ineffective, but it may also damage or even break your vacuum.
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Turn on ceiling fans
If you know or suspect that the ceiling is wet, never turn on a ceiling fan. If you follow our advice above and turn off the electricity immediately, you will avoid this mishap entirely.
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Leave furniture on a wet carpet
Leaving your furniture on the wet carpet will only cause further damage. Instead, place small saucers beneath the furniture legs to give it something to rest on and raise it off the wet surface.
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Attempt redecorating
Any repairs or redecorating should be done later. Wet wall redecorating may result in peeling wallpaper and damp, stained patches of paint. Instead, everything should be allowed to dry completely before proceeding with any further work.
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Use ordinary cleaning products
Flood water is frequently contaminated with sewage, posing a health risk if not properly cleaned up. As a result, when it comes to cleaning up toxic flood water, ordinary cleaning products are obsolete; instead, stronger and more specialized products must be used.
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Stand under sagging ceilings
Place yourself in rooms with sagging ceilings. Before entering any damaged rooms, carefully inspect them. If there is a leak from above, it may cause the ceiling to sag. Do not enter the room if you notice sagging because water damage could cause the ceiling to collapse.
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Wait before taking action
Don’t put off dealing with in your home. Contact a professional as soon as possible to assess the situation and determine the best solution. The longer you wait, the worse the damage will become, potentially causing mold or structural cave-ins.
GET PROFESSIONAL HELP
Seek necessary medical care and do not neglect minor wounds or illnesses. Get enough food, clothing, shelter, and first aid.
NOTE:
- Be wary of strangers who drive through neighborhoods offering to clean up or repair your home.
- Do not go after the flood victims.
- Make use of a floatation device. If possible, throw something buoyant to the victim, such as a spare tire, a large ball, or a foam ice chest.
- Call 911. Call for help and provide the correct location information.
WRAP UP
You must check for gas or water leaks and restore service. Look for cleaning appliances, furniture, floors, and other belongings. Also, listen to the radio for information on possible assistance from the state or federal government or other organizations. Lastly, discuss claims, and contact your insurance agent.
