If you experience a significant storm or plumbing problem that floods your home, you may require water damage restoration to ensure the area is sanitary and livable. However, you can safeguard the belongings and limit the severity of damage during these events with the proper steps. Here are several ways to limit moisture problems.

4 Ways to Lower the Chances of Water Damage 

1. Take Photos

Turn off the electricity to the house by flipping the main breaker in the circuit box. This switch is typically in the basement, utility room, or garage, and will be behind a metal panel. 

After this, put on rubber boots to protect your feet from potentially hazardous water that may contain sewage. Take photographs of everything in the home. Capture evidence of the condition of the walls, floors, and any belongings. These images will show your insurance company the damage and help them decide how much money to award for a claim.

2. Remove Fabric

Upholstered furniture and fabric items will absorb water and encourage mold growth. Move all curtains, furniture, and rugs to the outside of the house. Even if they are dry, they can absorb the humidity from the air inside.

Bring wet area rugs and upholstered furniture to the cleaner, as they may have been in contact with unsanitary waste. These experts will steam clean the fibers to remove potentially harmful bacteria that may be collecting in the fabric.

3. Discuss Your Options

Talk with the insurance company about what procedures to follow after you document the initial damage. They may require you to use a specific water damage restoration company, or allow you to choose one yourself.

They may also advise you on what to do in the meantime, such as where to seek temporary housing and appliances. This will ensure that your family has a safe place to stay while professionals clean and sanitize the home.

4. Record Everything

Your insurance company will require detailed information on everything in the home that you must throw away or repair during water damage restoration. If you haven’t done so already, take pictures of anything beyond repair before tossing it in the trash. Create an inventory of all belongings and write their original cost to hasten the insurance claim payout. This will ensure you can purchase new items as needed.

If your home experiences water issues, contact Solid Management Disaster & Restoration Services in Pagosa Springs, CO. The demolition and remodeling experts remove moisture, mitigate mold and mildew, and rebuild damaged homes. Call (970) 946-4562 to schedule a consultation for your home. Visit the website to learn about their water damage restoration and remediation services.