If you have ever walked into your home and immediately found a flood, you understand how overwhelming it is. With dozens of thoughts running through your head, it can be difficult to know what to do first. We at Southeast Restoration Group in Athens want you to be able to calmly assess the situation and move forward in the direction most beneficial to you and your home. To help you do that, follow these five steps to start the water damaage repair process safely and effectively.
Put Safety First
Floods can be dangerous! With hazards ranging from electrocution, to structural damage, to contaminated water, you should be very cautious about reentering your home during a flood. Water damage always presents safety concerns call for help right away and let the water damage repair professionals handle the situation. Even if it means your home is at greater risk, it is not worth putting your health on the line.
Stop The Flow
It’s important that you stop the flow of water as soon as possible once a flood has begun. If the flood is coming from within your home (like a burst pipe) the solution is simple. All you need to do is locate your shutoff valve and turn off the water to your home. Make sure that you know where your shutoff valve is located and how to use it so you won’t waste any time getting it turned off during a flood.
Take A Breather
One the flow has been stopped, step back and take a deep breath. Don’t panic. Know that as distant as it may seem your home will soon be restored and looking like new. Doing this will allow you to gather your thoughts, put things in perspective, and be more prepared to face the rest of the situation.
Your next step should be to call a reputable water damage restoration contractor to do the repair without delay. The sooner you do so, the sooner they will be able to come out and begin the repair process. This is important because it determines how long the floodwater remains in your home. Many damage restoration contractors have 24/7 emergency response services, and you will probably want to rely on a company that does this so they will be able to come out to your home sooner.
Call Your Insurance Company
Finally, you should contact your insurance company to begin the process of filing your claim. Make sure you clearly document all the damage done to your home as that will be an important part of filing your claim and getting repair work done.
Hopefully, this information is never of any use to you! Although, if your home does ever flood, you will be well prepared and will know what you should do. Once you have put your safety first, stopped the flow, and took a breather, contact Southeast Restoration Group in Athens for the full water damage repair.