From broken plumbing fixtures to seasonal storms, there are several ways water can collect inside your space. According to the fire and water damage restoration specialists at Henry's Services in Anchorage, AK, there are a few steps homeowners can take to prevent damage from getting worse and expedite the repair process. Below, the restoration pros recommend steps you should take after finding a leak or flood in your house. 

How to Make the Water Damage Repair Process Less Stressful

1. Shut Off the Water Main Valve

Even if you can identify the source of the leak, it’s still a good idea to turn off the supply of water to the property. If pipes behind walls are damaged, shutting off the water main valve will stop the liquid from rushing through broken channels and creating more leaks. After the water is shut off, move rugs, furniture, and any other damp belongings to a dry area. Don’t touch wet plugged-in appliances, wires, or outlets, as you could get an electrical shock. 

2. Call Your Insurance Provider

After you’ve shut off the water and put wet items in a safe place to dry, contact your homeowners insurance provider. Depending on the cause of water damage, your policy might cover the cost of repairs. After reaching out to the lender, you will be required to file an insurance claim. Remember to take pictures of the damage, as it will be used when processing the paperwork. The lender will also send a fire damage and restoration specialist or contractor to assess the severity of the issue and detail their findings in a written report.   

3. Contact a Restoration Specialist

While waiting for your claim to be accepted, start reaching out to fire and water damage restoration technicians to find a qualified person to repair your property. The individual should be licensed, as this means they adhere to industry standards set by the areas they service. General liability insurance will cover the cost of repairing or replacing any additional property damaged during the job, while workers compensation will safeguard you against responsibility if someone gets hurt while restoring your house. For further insight into the technician’s abilities, ask to see photos of their work and for referrals from past clients. 

If an inferno or flood has wiped through your property, reach out to the fire and water damage restoration specialists at Henry’s Services for help. The technicians have been serving Anchorage and the surrounding communities for more than 20 years, which means you can rest easy knowing they will remove excess water and mold to restore the safety and comfort of your space. To learn more about fire and water damage restoration, call (907) 344-4200 or visit the company online. Follow the home improvement pros on Facebook for design tips to boost the aesthetic appeal of your property.