When water damage occurs, it’s important to act fast. By handling the situation without delay, you minimize the risk of permanent harm and may even avoid some steep costs, too. The team at ServiceMaster Fire & Water Restoration Services based in Lexington, KY, provides restoration and reconstruction services in the aftermath of a leak or flood. They share some valuable dos and don’ts for how best to respond in such an unfortunate situation.

5 Tips for Handling Water Damage

1. Do Call a Professional

It can be traumatic to discover that an area of your home has been affected by water damage. Whether it’s a surprise storm that causes the problem or a slow leak that simply builds over time, you’ll need to contact a professional at the first sign of a problem. They’ll determine the source of the issue and the best way to handle it.

2. Do Turn Off the Water

If the water is flowing and causing even further damage to your property and possessions, it’s important to stop the source. When a broken pipe is the culprit, for example, you can turn off the water until a plumber arrives.

3. Do Safely Retrieve Items

Reconstruction services can help restore the integrity of your property, but you can’t salvage valuables that are destroyed by the water. If it’s safe to do so, retrieve the items in the area of damage so that they aren’t exposed to more moisture, which can quickly cause issues like mold buildup and decay.

4. Don’t Use Any Electronics

It may be tempting to run a vacuum over the area to clean up, but you’ll do more harm than good. It’s not safe to run electronic devices over wet surfaces. You also risk causing damage to the appliances you attempt to use. It’s best to contact a remediation and reconstruction company to handle the water damage first.

5. Don’t Delay Seeking Help

Maybe the leak has stopped, or the rain has ceased. Even if the source is no longer an issue, the water damage will only get worse with time. If left to linger, the moisture can cause mold to develop on everything from the walls to the carpeting to your possessions. It can also add weight to walls and ceilings. The longer it pushes against the drywall, the greater the chances of a structural collapse.

Coping with water damage can be a challenge when your valuables are at stake, but it’s also a relief knowing that the professionals are just a phone call away. Get in touch with the team at ServiceMaster Fire & Water Restoration Services for everything from a leaky roof to a major disaster. Backed by over 60 years of experience, they will help you recover your home and belongings as quickly and effectively as possible. Visit their website to learn more about their services, or call (859) 309-9964 to speak with a friendly representative today.