Flooding can take place for a number of reasons. Your toilet leak might be left unchecked and your sewage line may have cracked. Either way, sitting idle isn’t an option – you need to call one of the finest flood damage companies in Laguna Niguel to restore safety in your home.
However, you can do many things besides hiring experts to mitigate the harm. Reacting to a flood appropriately can spare you a lot of trouble in the long run, and you’re about to find out what it involves. Keep reading!
What should you do in the first 24 hours after a flood?
Floods can wreak havoc in your household, especially if black water is the culprit. It can harm a variety of materials, and you might be tempted to start restoring them immediately. However, this is ill-advised.
Here’s what you should do instead in the first 24 hours after a flood:
Stop the source
If the source of the flood occurred somewhere in the house, try to stop it. You should be able to do this by turning off the main valve. It’ll help fend off further destruction.
Document the damage
Before removing any water or making any repairs, document the full extent of the damage for your insurer. Take videos or photos to improve your chances of a successful insurance claim. Digital versions work best because you can copy them easily and store them electronically.
Contact your insurer
Another crucial step is to reach out to your insurance company promptly. Keep in mind you might be facing various contingencies.
For instance, groundwater flood damage isn’t usually covered by homeowners’ insurance. This means you’ll need to work with the company to pinpoint the root of the flood and what you can do under your coverage.
What steps should you take after a flood?
The first 24 hours are paramount to addressing a flood properly. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t do anything after this period. Here are a few useful tips:
Stay safe
Even if your flooding stops, it can still pose a serious danger. If it forces you to leave your house, wait for the authorities to determine whether it’s safe to return.
Before entering the place, check for any signs of damage that could turn into accidents. The list includes broken floors, ceilings, and foundation cracks. In addition, don’t enter any room with standing water unless you’ve turned off the electricity and don’t use appliances on wet floors or carpets.
Examine wood furniture
If you own wood furniture, move it to reduce damage. The pieces you wish to save should be placed in a dark, dry place. Otherwise, exposure to sunshine can warp the wood.
Also, don’t forget to remove drawers and other components and dry them separately. They’ll probably need to be sanded and stained before future use.
Bring in the professionals
The next number you should call is professional flood damage specialists. They know the ins and outs of repairing your house and drying it thoroughly. This will help you prevent getting your hands dirty and risking injuries.
Looking for trusted flood damage companies in Laguna Niguel? We are the only company you need!
Floods can severely compromise your Laguna Niguel home and have disastrous consequences. Restoring the place on your own isn’t recommended, as the job is extremely complicated. You might do more harm than good and incur more expenses, leaving you no money for your trip to the Niguel Botanical Reserve.
To prevent this situation, get in touch with EHS as soon as flooding starts. We’ll arrive quickly, assess the harm, and recommend the necessary steps. Lastly, we’ll use all our expertise and tools to return your home to its former condition.
Book EHS for peace of mind!