Safety Tips When Dealing with Water Damage

Water damage may not seem as dangerous as a fire or an earthquake, but it has its risks. The most disheartening thing is it can happen to anyone and unless you have experience dealing with water damage, it can be a stressful experience. So, if you find yourself in a water damage situation, the first thing you should do is contact a professional water damage service. But while you wait for them, here are the things you should do to avoid experiencing huge losses.

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1. Check the Source of Water Damage

Water damage can result from many sources including an overflowing bathtub, a leaky pipe, a leaky roof, and even a flooded basement. While you wait for professionals to arrive, check out the source and stop it to prevent more water from coming in. If the source is the plumbing system, you can shut off the water main instead of inspecting all the pipes in your house.

2. Secure the Electricals and Cut-out the Power

Water and electricity can create a very hazardous environment. If the water level rise above your electrical outlets it can lead to electrocution. Not only that, but it can also damage your electrical components. That is why the safe bet is to disconnect the power and move any electrical components that might be damaged by water.

3. Quickly Move the Furniture

If there is carpet or furniture inside the room, make every effort to remove them so that it does not become soaked. You can remove any carpets or area rugs to clean and disinfect them. If the water is in the basement area and you have furniture there, take them upstairs or outdoors if they are already damp. The sooner you remove them from the area, the higher the chances of reducing the damage.

4. Remove Colored Rugs from the Wet Floor

Remove any colored carpets and mats from the floor unless you want your flooring stained. Soaked rugs and mats might cause the dye to seep and wind up on your light-colored carpets or wooden floors. Take these items outside to dry, or send them to the carpet cleaner to be cleaned and disinfected.

5. Call Your Insurance Company

Your insurance company is a valuable resource in navigating an emergency. Here are some pointers to help you build an effective claim:

• Call the insurance company as soon as possible after the water damage happens to find out what procedures you must follow.
• When the water damage professional gets on the scene, they should help you document the damage as well as estimate the cost of repairs.
• Take pictures of the damaged areas and valuables.
• Keep thorough records of receipts and invoices.

Hire a professional to inspect and clean your home or property in case of water damage. Clean Masters is ready to provide rapid response cleanup services throughout North Charleston, using the best techniques, experts, and technology to guarantee your property is clean, safe, and dry as quickly as possible. Call us today to learn more on how to protect your home from water damage.