If your home has fallen victim to the incredibly damaging effects of water or interior flooding, utilize the expert recommended tips and steps to avoid drowning in the costs for home repair.
Step 1 – Assess the Damage
The first step in responding to water damage involves taking a specific account of what damages have occurred. To do this, start by turning off the main water supply to your home. Additionally, turn off any natural gas outlets or supplies, as you should also be sure there are no exposed electrical outlets or wires. Your key focus here involves making sure you home is safe from any ongoing damage. As you begin taking an inventory of the damage, be sure to cautiously inspect areas that seem safe; do not enter areas that can be hazardous. Specifically, don’t enter a room that has standing water in it, as standing water may pose the threat of electrical shock / electrocution.
Step 2 – Communication with Your Provider
Once you have an idea of what damage has occurred, contact your insurance provider to see what other measures you may be able to take. As each policy has exclusions for coverage and reimbursements, an awareness of your specific damage and the terms of your policy will help home owners to remain well informed and proactive. As all damage claims made to your provider require thorough evaluation and potential mitigation, your insurance company will need to be certain that you took responsible measures and efforts once the water damage occurred.
Step 3 – Stop the Spread of Destruction
Once you have assessed basic damages and contacted your provider, quickly respond to the damage by using dehumidifiers and / or fans to aid in the fast drying of water-logged areas. If it is safe to do so, dry your furniture or move furniture to a safe and dry area. This can help prevent wood from warping, erosion of paint, and other effects. Adding to this effort, try to mop up or use a wet-vacuum to pull water from soaked carpets. Oftentimes, a home insurance policy requires home owners to attempt salvaging carpet and carpet padding before agreeing to pay for any replacement flooring.
