The devastation of a flood is always a shock; however, acting as quickly as possible is essential to mitigate water damage. Water has the power to not only destroy the contents of a house, but also to make it a welcome environment for mold, among many other problems. Here’s what you need to know about this serious issue in case it happens to you.

Your Guide to Dealing With Water Damage

1. Your Insurance Company Must Be Notified Immediately

Notify your insurance company as soon as water damage occurs so your agent can start the claims process. Most damage is covered by flood insurance unless it has to do with property neglect. Alerting your insurance agent to the issue also helps you know what to do next. For instance, they may want you to document the damage before cleaning up.

2. The Problem Will Get Worse Without Emergency Water Removal

Schedule emergency water removal immediately to correct the problem before it worsens. It takes as little as 24 hours for mold to grow in a water-damaged environment. This fungus not only impairs household structures and ruins belongings, but it also causes a variety of health problems. How severe the health issues are depends on the type of mold. Symptoms range from severe allergic reactions to persistent headaches, chronic fatigue, and rashes.

3. The Water Pollution Level Must Be Identified

Identify what type of water damage you are working with to avoid illness and related complications. Category 1 damage is from a clean source, such as your dishwasher, and is not a health risk. Category 2 water contains bacteria and may cause illness, while Category 3, such as a sewage backup or overflowing toilet, is a serious hazard.

4. Using a Household Vacuum Is Extremely Dangerous

Never use a regular household vacuum to remove water from your home. Water is a conductor for electricity, so this can result in serious injury. It can also damage the vacuum beyond repair. Working with a professional disaster restoration specialist is the best way to safely remove the liquid from your home.

5. Your Gutters Can Save Your Roof From Extensive Damage

Routine gutter cleaning is one of the easiest and best ways to prevent water damage to your roof. Gutters clogged with leaves, twigs, and other debris allow rainwater to back up under your roof shingles and cause serious leaks, deterioration, and mold. Semi-annual gutter cleaning helps rainwater flow away from your house, especially if the soil around your foundation is sloped.

 

Rely on the experts at FloodCo to keep your home safe and dry. The fully licensed and insured disaster restoration specialists proudly serve the Flathead Valley and Northwest Montana communities with emergency water damage cleanup, carpet drying, and mold remediation, among other services. Call (406) 892-1717 to schedule a consultation, or visit the website for more information.