What to Do After a Flood: A Step-by-Step Guide to Water Damage Recovery

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What to do if your home has water damage?

Any presence of a flood in your home is sure to cause panic. The unfortunate reality of an at-home flood is the compounding issues they can cause. Not only are personal belongings at risk, but depending on the materials in the home, water can soak into them and lead to extensive damage. That doesn’t even cover the structural damage your home can take as a result. In terms of what to do after a flood has taken place, immediate action is of the utmost importance. This step-by-step guide from Dreyer’s DKI will help homeowners take the necessary steps for a successful recovery process.

Step 1: Ensure Safety First

Tackling flood aftermath head-on can be hazardous. When dealing with any type of flooding and water damage, safety should be made the number one priority. Start by making sure all of the electricity is off to avoid electrocution. Flood water can also be littered with contaminants, so make sure to wear protective gear such as gloves, boots, and a face mask. Also, if there’s any noticeable structural damage, avoid entering the premises. The building’s integrity could very well be compromised.

Step 2: Contact Your Insurance Company

Next, contact your insurance company. To get the claim process underway, you’ll need to document the extent of the damage by taking photos and videos of affected areas and belongings. Once the insurance company has been informed, get clarification of what’s covered when it comes to these situations. Coverage can include such things as water damage repairs, mold remediation, and temporary housing if needed.

disinfection and water damage categorization

Step 3: Start Water Removal and Drying

Once the area has been deemed safe, the water removal and drying process can start. Pumps and vacuums will kickstart the water removal process. After most of the water has been removed, open windows and doors to improve airflow. Then to speed up the drying process, strategically place fans and dehumidifiers around the affected area. This is also the time to dispose of wet materials like soaked carpets, upholstery, and insulation that cannot be salvaged.

Step 4: Prevent Mold Growth

Mold growth in your home can cause health complications for members of your household. Considering that in flooding situations mold can grow anywhere between 24 and 48 hours, quick drying is critical. Start by using mold-killing products like fungicides and mold-preventive solutions on affected surfaces. This will hopefully negate any mold growth but still make sure to keep an eye out for any signs of growth after the cleaning process.

Step 5: Clean and Disinfect All Surfaces

This step involves using bleach or professional-grade cleaners to sanitize floors, walls, and furniture. You’ll want to focus on the areas that have possibly been contaminated with floodwaters that may have brought sewage or chemicals. And with safety still in mind, properly dispose of contaminated items and debris.

Step 6: Begin Repair and Restoration

Now marks the beginning of repair and restoration. Work with local professionals to assess structural damage done to your home by inspecting the foundation, drywall, and insulation for damages. Depending on the type and extent of flood damage, repairs or replacements may be made to the home’s drywall, flooring, electrical systems, or plumbing. For future protection, consider upgrades such as sump pumps and water-resistant materials. Upgrades such as these are great long-term investments for your home and can help prevent substantial flood damage or even flooding in general.

Step 7: Prevent Future Water Damage

There are many home systems that play a key role in preventing flooding in your home and the water damage that can potentially result. Consider installing or upgrading drainage systems for proper drainage to help avoid future flooding. Another key area of focus for any homeowner is properly maintaining your home’s gutters and downspouts. Regular cleaning and maintenance of these home systems can prevent large amounts of water from pooling around your home’s foundation. Neglecting these necessary home maintenance tasks can lead to a damaged foundation, water damage, and an influx of seeping water.

Recap

No matter the extent of flooding in your home, acting as fast as possible is the most important factor. But no matter what, make sure to follow proper safety precautions, take necessary steps to prevent further damage, and get the repair and recovery process rolling. Dealing with flood damage in your northeast Florida home? Seek professional help from Dreyer’s DKI. Contact Dreyer’s DKI today for extensive repairs and mold remediation services.