Water damage emergencies in the home are common and serious. If it is not dealt with urgently and properly, water damage will harm the value and safety of your property. Addressing the emergency quickly is crucial to prevent further damages and repair costs. Residential water damage can be due to overflowing sewage backups, busted pipes, HVAC leaks, faulty roofs, appliances, floods, and storms.
Handling Residential Water Damage
Time is valuable when it comes to dealing with residential water damage. Have a clear and straightforward plan that you can act upon quickly and efficiently. Here are effective ways to cope with residential water damage.
Protect People and Valuables
The first thing to do when a water emergency occurs is to switch off the main power from the circuit breaker to shut off the electricity. It is essential to always keep a flashlight near your circuit breaker. If a limited area is affected, unplug all the devices in that space. Make sure all your valuables, such as electronics, cash, or important documents, are out of harm’s way.
If you experience a flood, evacuate the flooded area and take nothing but valuable items with you. Only return when authorities deem it safe and wear protective clothing, waterproof boots, and rubber gloves when you do. Mold growth and contaminated water are health hazards.
Prevent Further Residential Water Damage
Residential water damage is quick to take its toll and compound its damages. If a storm is coming that could cause flooding, take measures like sandbagging. If there is a leak, shut off the main water valves and try to identify the source of the leak. If you are not able to locate the leak, call a professional to find and fix it.
Dry Things Out
Start drying things out as soon as possible so you can prevent the growth of mildew and mold, which is harmful to your health. Use the air conditioner, dehumidifiers, and fans, and remove and hang outside to dry any rugs, carpets, curtains, or clothes that got wet. Remove all the furniture that was damaged by water.
Restore the Property
Get professional help to deal with water damage. A restoration company has special equipment, tools, and safety gear. Trapped residual water and moisture can continue damaging your property if not dealt with. Replace your baseboards, flooring, insulation, and drywall that were saturated by water.
Lakeland Home Inspection Service provides home inspections in the Lakeland area. Contact us to book an inspection for your new home.