Whether a flood is caused by rain, groundwater, or a malfunction in your home’s water system, there are some recommended measures to follow in the first 24 hours following the flood to guarantee the safety of your home and family and the best possible outcome with your insurance company.
Avoid Taking Additional Risks
If the water was bad enough to force you to evacuate, make a safe return. Before entering the home, inspect for visible structural deterioration such as warping, loose or broken foundation components, fissures, and holes. Contact the appropriate utility company if you suspect damage to water, gas, electric, or sewer lines.
Take Photographs
Take photos or videos before removing any water or performing any repairs to completely document the damage for your insurer. Digital versions are desirable since they can be easily stored and copied electronically. If you begin removing water or making repairs before photographing the damage, he advises, you risk reducing the scope of your coverage. That is why it is recommended to avail the services of companies like puroclean.com because they are familiar with the insurance claim process.
Take Care of Your Health
Even though the water in your home is pure, it may have been contaminated by sewage or other domestic pollutants that require biohazard cleanup. Waders and waterproof boots that reach to the hip or waist are advised. Additionally, wear rubber gloves when removing water-damaged goods to avoid contamination. Food that has come into contact with floodwaters should be discarded.
Contact Your Insurance Provider
Because you should contact your insurer immediately following a flood, save the phone numbers for your insurance company and local agent in your always-ready emergency pack. If a region or neighborhood has been flooded, your agent may be distracted by his or her water problems. In that case, call the insurance company’s corporate headquarters.
Because groundwater flood damage is frequently not covered by ordinary homeowners insurance policies, you will need to work together with your insurer to determine the source of the flood and the extent of your coverage.
Determine if You Are in a Disaster Zone
When government officials legally designate a location as a “disaster area,” property owners gain access to additional resources, including public services, to safeguard and rehabilitate the region. Additionally, you may be qualified for financial aid.
Remove Water
Once you’ve obtained approval from your insurer to remove the water, use a sump pump. Bear in mind that water is heavy, weighing ten pounds per cubic foot, so take care not to injure yourself, especially if you’re carrying buckets of water upstairs and downstairs. Allow for the circulation of fresh air by opening doors and windows, as long as this does not allow extra water entry.
Reduce Mold Damage
Mold can begin to grow 24 to 48 hours after a flood, so remove all moisture contents, particularly carpets and beds, immediately. If an object has been wet for less than 48 hours, it can be salvaged. You must, however, determine whether the item has sufficient monetary or personal value to justify the effort. Additionally, notify your insurance carrier before removing products to avoid jeopardizing your coverage. Always photograph the flood-damaged property. There are companies that specialize in this kind of situation, visit them here to learn more.
Conclusion
Floods and flash floods are extremely dangerous and can occur in all 50 states. They are the most common and pervasive natural disasters, second only to fire; as a result, education and planning are crucial to minimizing losses.
