Water. It is natural, and it is everywhere. What steps should be taken if it invades your property? Removing water from a building may appear simple, but it creates several obstacles that we cannot see. Proper water damage restoration saves long-term damage, structural problems, and mold growth.
What should you do in case water damages your property?
Remember these measures when responding to a water-related emergency, and you will be well on your way to repairing your property and resuming your normal life.
Secure the area.
Check the water’s safety first. Depending on the measure of the damage, you may be in danger. Turn off the water and electricity and any equipment or objects that could conduct electricity or cause floods. Cover any roof or wall openings with tarps to keep the weather out. There may be rodents and other pests in the water. Secure or remove any potentially collapsible heavy furniture or equipment. Considering both workers and consumers, decide if the area is a safe location to wait for assistance.
Call your insurance.
Next, you must contact your insurance provider. Even if floods cause damage to your property and you do not have flood insurance, you should still investigate the option. Depending on the cause of the water, a policy may be able to cover the damage, especially if someone else was at fault and carries insurance.
Remove valuables.
Some items may already be irrevocably damaged, so remove precious items from the premises. Move off-site any specialized equipment, computers, and financial data. Even if they are guarded above the water’s surface, natural disasters and structural damage can entice thieves. You do not want somebody to take advantage of the office’s weakened structure to steal from you.
Segregate wet and dry furniture.
The undamaged furnishings and equipment should be relocated to the highest floor or stacked when performing flood cleanup. The room will be humid and wet even without submerged objects. They may develop mold or become musty if left in a flooded structure, so only do this if you cannot remove them totally.
Get some help.
You cannot tackle the majority of the water damage procedure on your own, whether a storm or a broken toilet caused it. Even if you were not overwhelmed by losing your home or office to water, you lack the equipment and resources necessary to restore the area. Water pumps, fans, and dehumidifiers could require removal and reinstallation. Each element of water damage restoration must be performed meticulously to prevent a recurrence. Homeowners and business owners frequently attempt to manage water issues independently, but it can be difficult to visually assess the damage.
You may be sentimental about damaged goods in your business. You may be unaware if something needs replacement. Everything from the paint to the carpet has a history, which a third-party professional team like PuroClean Orland Park can reveal. They can advise you on what to keep and what to discard. To eliminate health concerns posed by mold or a crumbling structure, remove everything that is beyond repair.
The Takeaway
As you have read, excessive restoration efforts might be costly. Errors are expensive. Additionally, waiting too long can increase the cost of water. If you “wait and see,” your building may fall apart or develop mold. If it is a job for professionals, move quickly. Call if you observe a problem.
