Do you have to deal with a flooded house? It’s a terrible situation and one that you’ll want to try to avoid in the future. However, dealing with the aftermath of a flood is important, or the situation can worsen. The last thing you want to worry about is what to do after a house flood. We want you to have all the information you need, so if you find yourself having to deal with this unfortunate circumstance, here is what you need to do.
Find the Source and Stop the Water
Depending on the cause of the flood, this could involve turning off water pipes in the home, diverting overflows from nearby rivers and streams, or drying out leaking basements and foundations. Once the source is identified and the water is stopped. Property owners must carefully clean up the mess and determine if any structural damage has been done.
Disconnect From Electricity
Unplug any appliances from the power outlet, shut off any breakers that are accessible, and unplug anything connected wired to your outlets. This will help to prevent any electrical shock, sparking, or worse.
Put on protective gear such as rubber gloves, rubber boots, and a breathing mask and goggles to protect yourself. Before attempting any further work, call your power company right away and inform them of the situation. Avoid standing in any water, as it has the potential to carry electricity and can be deadly.
Assess the Damage After a House Flood
This includes looking for visible signs of water damage, and structural damage, and either checking the electrical outlets or having a professional electrical service check them for flood prevention. If possible, use a strong flashlight and protective footwear when walking in wet areas. In addition, when you are assessing the damage and gearing up to clean, it is essential to have the right equipment. Look for strong, top-quality gloves to ensure you are well-protected during cleanup.
Inspect walls, floors, and ceilings for any signs of cracks, buckles, swelling, or warping. Check furniture and furnishings for signs of water damage, such as a musty smell, discoloration, or mold growth.
Finally, homeowners should make sure to contact their insurance company, as most policies cover floods and can help cover the cost of repairs.
Disinfect and Restore Your Home
This may include the presence of mold, bacteria, and waterborne illnesses. Next, call your insurance provider to report the damage and discuss any materials you may need to make repairs. It is important to properly disinfect your home after a flood.
Discard any furniture or items that may have been damaged. Power wash walls, floors, and appliances with a disinfectant to remove bacteria and other organisms.
If possible, use a wet vacuum to remove excess water. Next, use fans and dehumidifiers to dry out wet items and encourage airflow. If you need help, it’s best to check out this service as professionals in water damage restoration can ensure that your property will be good as new.
Ensure Proper Cleanup After a House Flood
After a house flood, the most important thing to do is ensure your family is safe and then call the professionals. Don’t try to do any clean-up or repairs on your own — the sooner you get help, the better the chances of saving your home and reducing the risk of further damage. Call a certified water damage restoration specialist today to get your home back in pre-flood condition.
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