The most common reason for water damage in New York, as reported by the homeowners, is due to flooding. It is an overwhelming situation, but you must act quickly and systematically to reduce the damage. If the water remains stagnant and trapped for a long time, it can lead to water damage and subsequently affect the structural integrity of the building. So, to minimize the risk and facilitate recovery, here we have listed the steps you should take for water damage restoration.
- Ensure Safety First
When it comes to flooding, your priority should be to maintain safety. You have to shut down all your house’s electrical systems and gas to prevent any hazard. You must turn off all utilities and wear waterproof boots to protect yourself from contaminants. Before you touch anything, you must wear protective gloves. Make a proper assessment before entering the building, as it should be structurally sound to avoid the risk of collapse.
- Document the Damage
Flooding can lead to various other problems, so you have to consult with a water remediation company and file an Insurance claim to bear the restoration expenses. Thus, you must keep all the documents safe, take photographs of the affected areas and belongings, and, if possible, use a good camera to make videos. You have to list all the details of the damaged items, their present conditions, and the appropriate value.
- Notify Your Insurance Company
To initiate the claim process, you must inform the insurance company immediately about the flooding. To support your claim, submit all necessary documentation and go through the coverage details to understand which damages are covered and whether there are any special requirements to file the claim.
- Remove Standing Water
You cannot leave the standing water for too long. Otherwise, it will damage the structural integrity and foundation of the building, so use appropriate equipment, such as pumps and wet or dry vacuums, to extract the water quickly. There are different categories of water damage, so it is always best to hire water damage restoration professionals with experience dealing with flood water. Your prompt action will also help reduce mold growth and safeguard your family members from health hazards.
- Dry and Dehumidify Affected Areas
You must quickly dry the areas where water is stagnant and use a dehumidifier to eliminate the chance of moisture accumulation. To enhance air circulation, you can start by opening the doors and windows for proper ventilation and also deploy devices that can quicken the drying process. This would not only save the foundation of the building from water damage but also prevent the growth of mold and mildew.
Conclusion
When cleaning the areas covered in flood water, you must be careful about removing the remaining mud, dirt, and unsalvageable materials. Also, do not touch anything with bare hands; use Gl,oves, and proper cleaning agents to sanitize the surfaces. If you want to maintain a healthy environment after the flood, you have to opt for a deep cleaning process, as there is a high chance that the flood water was contaminated with bacteria. You can consult with specialists through zicklincontracting.com, who can diagnose and assess the area to provide safe remediation.
