5 Essential Do's and Don'ts After Water Damage: A Guide to Minimizing Damage

3/12/2023 (Permalink)

Water damage can be a nightmare for homeowners. It can happen due to various reasons such as floods, storms, burst pipes, leaks, and many more. Water damage can cause severe structural damage, mold growth, and other hazards. So, it's crucial to know what to do and what not to do after water damage to minimize the damage and prevent further problems. In this blog, we will discuss five do's and don'ts after water damage.

Do's:

1. Turn off the power supply: Before you start any cleanup process, turn off the power supply to the affected area. Water and electricity are a dangerous combination, and it's crucial to take precautions to prevent any electrical hazards. If you're unsure about how to turn off the power, call an electrician.
2. Call a professional restoration company: Water damage can cause severe structural damage, mold growth, and other health hazards. It's essential to hire a professional restoration company to assess the damage and perform the necessary cleanup and restoration. They have the expertise, equipment, and experience to handle water damage effectively.
3. Remove the water: Once the restoration company arrives, they will start removing the water from the affected area. It's crucial to remove the water as soon as possible to prevent further damage and mold growth. They will use specialized equipment such as pumps, vacuums, and dehumidifiers to remove the water and dry the area.
4. Document the damage: Take photos or videos of the damage and keep a record of all the items that have been damaged. This information will be helpful when you file an insurance claim.
5. Ventilate the area: After the water has been removed, it's crucial to ventilate the area to prevent mold growth. Open windows and doors to allow fresh air to circulate. Use fans and dehumidifiers to dry the area thoroughly.

Don'ts:

1. Don't wait: Water damage can cause severe structural damage, mold growth, and other health hazards. Don't wait to call a professional restoration company. The longer you wait, the more damage will occur.
2. Don't enter the affected area without protective gear: Water damage can cause health hazards such as mold growth, bacteria, and viruses. Don't enter the affected area without protective gear such as gloves, masks, and boots.
3. Don't use household appliances: Don't use household appliances such as vacuums, fans, and dehumidifiers to remove the water. They are not designed to handle water damage and can cause electrical hazards.
4. Don't ignore the damage: Even if the water damage seems minor, don't ignore it. Water can seep into the walls and floors, causing severe structural damage and mold growth.
5. Don't forget to file an insurance claim: Water damage can be expensive to repair, and it's crucial to file an insurance claim to cover the costs. Don't forget to document the damage and keep all the receipts and invoices.

Water damage can be a nightmare for homeowners. It's crucial to know what to do and what not to do after water damage to minimize the damage and prevent further problems. Follow the above do's and don'ts to handle water damage effectively. Remember, the key is to act fast and hire a professional restoration company to assess the damage and perform the necessary cleanup and restoration.