What to do After a Flood

From pipe bursts to melting snow, there are several causes for floods. Even if your home has never flooded, you may still experience it in the future. Because flooding is always a possibility, it’s critical that you have a plan in place to protect you, your family, and your home.

Here are several steps you should take after experiencing water damage in your home.

Stay Away From Flooded Water

The flooded water can be dangerous to you and your family’s health. Unhealthy toxins, pointed objects, and electrically-charged items are only a few things you may find floating in the water.

If you’ve noticed your basement has flooded, stay clear of the water until restoration professionals can completely remove all of it.

Document All of the Damage

While you may be tempted to remove the water immediately, hold off for a moment. To get the most out of your insurance coverage, you should take the time to document all of the damage the flood caused.

Take high-quality photos and write down clear descriptions of everything that’s been impacted by the flood.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Report your documented damage to your insurance company as soon as possible. Depending on your plan, you’ll need to work with your agent to determine how much damage will be covered.

To make the process as smooth as possible, ensure you understand what's covered in your policy, and if you're tempted to throw out damaged items, hold off because they may need to be examined to determine their value. Your insurance company should also guide you on the next steps to get your home repaired and back into a safe condition.

Flood damage is serious, so choose a restoration company that provides expert insurance guidance and assistance to feel confident getting the services you need.

Find a Reputable Restoration Company

Working with a qualified and trustworthy restoration company will make the rebuilding process fast and simple. If you are in an emergency situation after the flood, you should choose a restoration company that also provides 24/7 emergency response services.

Water Removal

A reputable restoration company will work quickly and diligently to remove all the

flooded water from your property. They start with a professional damage assessment and form a plan to ensure the water damage is thoroughly assessed and take the necessary safety precautions to protect your home and family from any additional damage.

Structural Drying

Water can seep into areas that may not be visible right away, so a thorough structural drying process is required. This is completed with specialized expertise and tools, and the restoration company should be able to prevent your property from suffering any severe deterioration.

Mold Remediation

After thoroughly removing the water, your chosen restoration team will remediate any mold damage. Mold exposure can result in various health-related issues, including severe allergies, fatigue, headaches, and sore throats.

Because mold can start growing within hours, it's critical to find a restoration company that can provide you with extensive mold removal and prevention quickly so that your family can stay safe and certain items can be salvaged.

Sewage Clean-up

Sewage contamination can result from flooding, and it can be extremely dangerous to come in contact with. This portion of the clean-up should never be DIY because of the health risks involved and does require specialized equipment and tools that are better left to the professionals so you don't have to worry about any sewage remaining in your home after the clean-up.

Prepare for Rebuilding & Repair

After all of the water and mold have been safely removed from your home, you’ll need to plan for any necessary repairs. Damaged walls, floors, and interior structures may require professional repair services from a certified contractor.

A professional repair service will provide fast and high-quality results that enhance your home's safety, security, and comfort.

Tips for Spotting Flood Damage

A flooded home doesn't just come from outside sources; it can come from interior damages, and the best way to prepare is to know what to look for to do some quick mitigation and prevent bigger issues. The biggest signs you're dealing with flood damage are:

●        You're finding yellow, orange, or brown discoloring on your walls

●        Cracked, buckled, or warped flooring or damaged floor joists in the basement

●        There's a musty or foul odor in your home

●        The baseboards are discolored, or your drywall is crumbling

●        Gaps and cracks have appeared in your foundation

When is a Small Leak a Big Worry?

Even the smallest leaks can become a massive headache for property damage. Aside from flooding, burst pipes are a major culprit for water damage, but fortunately, there are a few ways to tell you need to call a professional for an inspection.

●        The condensation in your home is out of control

●        You're dealing with damp and musty odors or mold growth

●        There's corrosion around screws, fixtures, and nails

●        Your ceilings and walls are sagging

●        Water stains are showing up on your walls and ceilings

What to Expect From Our Process

Our team has been in this business long enough to know that you need an expert assessment for emergency restoration because it can leave your home or business vulnerable. We are trained to know what to look for and will provide you with a comprehensive outline of all the steps required to restore your home, answer any questions, and offer support in filing your claim.

Restoration Network: Minnesota’s Trusted Water Damage Team

A flood can strike your home at some of the most unexpected times, so it’s always a good idea to be prepared with a plan in mind. By taking these steps, you’ll be able to quickly bring your home back to its comfortable and durable state.

If you’re in need of fast and reliable water damage restoration services, contact Restoration Network today! Our team of certified contractors will work quickly to help you enhance your home’s state after a recent disaster. To schedule an appointment, give us a call at 612-564-0202.