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Hurricane season is only a few weeks away, which means homeowners throughout Florida are getting ready for serious storms and stocking up on supplies. Unfortunately, even the best preparations can’t always prevent the water damage that strong winds, flying debris, and heavy rains can bring. If your home sustains hurricane damage, knowing what to do can help protect your family and your most valued possessions.

What to Do After Your Home Is Damaged by Water

1. Keep Yourself Safe

Water streaming down the walls and pooling on the floors can carry an electrical current, especially if wires were damaged in the storm. As soon as you notice water infiltration, turn off the electricity at the breaker panel. Flood water can also be filled with toxic chemicals, dangerous microorganisms, and bugs, so put on protective rubber boots before wading in.

2. Start Cleaning Up Right Away

water damageThe longer water sits, the more extensive the damage will be. Even areas that seem dry can hold moisture, which could lead to serious mold infestations later on. Ideally, cleanup should start within 48 hours, or at least as soon as it’s safe to go back inside.

Contact a water damage repair and restoration team as soon as you can. They’ll peel back soaked carpeting, throw away anything that has been destroyed, and dry up any standing water.

3. Call Your Insurance Company

Most Florida homeowners living on the coast have insurance against the massive water damage that can follow a hurricane. Call your insurance company as soon as possible to report the damage, even if you haven’t had a chance to inspect the house yet. Depending on your policy, they may cover the cost of cleanup and replace any damaged items.


 

Whether you’re dealing with a broken pipe or a leaky roof, the water restoration experts at SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine / St. Augustine Beach have the tools and experience to completely restore your home. Serving residents across St. Johns County, FL, they clean up and restore homes that sustained heavy water damage after hurricanes. Visit their website to learn more about their remediation expertise or call (904) 429-4457 to schedule immediate service.

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