When your home is flooded, mitigating the water damage and making your property safe once again are important. Knowing the right steps to take after trouble has struck is critical during a property disaster. Here is a brief guide to protecting you and your home.

4 Steps to Take After a Flood 

1. Contact the Right Authorities

If you suspect damage to utility lines or the presence of sewer water, contact the correct authorities before reentering the home, as these can be hazardous to your health. Gas leaks or electrical components that are in contact with water are incredibly dangerous and must be handled by a gas company or licensed electrician.

2. Turn Off Electric & Water

The first 24 hours are critical after a flood. If you can get to your main electrical panel and water valves, turn off the utilities. This will protect your home once the emergency is over and power is restored.

If your property or town is deemed unsafe, always follow the instructions put out by authorities. Make sure you listen for evacuation procedures and do not return until a professional team ensures that it is safe.

When entering a home with water damage from a flood, check structural weaknesses, such as loose floors and foundations, warped walls and beams, and unstable roofing. Do not enter if any part of your property seems on the verge of collapse.

3. Call the Insurance Company

Before calling a water damage restoration team, contact your insurance company, so you take the right steps to cover the costs of damages. Some might advise you to wait for an adjuster before cleaning up, but all will request pictures of the flood. Take clear photos of every area affected or do a video walk-through of the entire location. Board up any broken windows to prevent thieves or wildlife from entering, and when wading through water, wear rubber boots to protect your clothing and skin.

4. Hire a Water Damage Professional

Call a professional water damage company to help you clean up after a flood and restore your property back to normal. Emergency water removal will stop moisture from destroying more of your property and secure dangerous areas of your home. These teams will also help you stave off mold growth that can develop quickly and might offer assistance with insurance companies and claims.

 

For help with water damage and other property disasters, contact FloodCo. Serving the Flathead Valley and northwest Montana communities, their professional team is prepared to help their clients during the most vulnerable times. As a fully licensed contractor, their list of services includes everything from mold remediation to fire and smoke odor removal. For emergency water removal, call (406) 892-1717, or visit their website to learn more about how they can help you.