7 Steps You Need To Take After A Flood In Your Home
Home floods cause many short and long term challenges, and the aftershock can become very overwhelming. This is especially true when personal belongings are critically damaged or completely destroyed. But just because you're a victim of flood damage in your home doesn't mean that it's the end of the world. It can be a long journey, but there are ways to rebuild even in the most destructive floods. This article will go over the essential steps to take after a flood in your home.
Step # 1. If possible, stop the water flow at the source.
If you can make the flooding stop (i.e: if the source is not due to a natural disaster), do that immediately by sealing leaks or locating and switching off the primary water valve.
Step # 2. Shut off your electricity.
It's extremely dangerous to walk in the flood water on your way to the fuse box. If this is impossible to avoid, skip this step and reach out to an electrician who can handle the situation safely.
Step # 3. Evacuate your home.
Leave the premises once the above steps are complete. Round up the family, pets, and find someplace safe. Whether that's a friend's house or a shelter in the case of a natural disaster.
Step # 4. Check for injuries.
If anyone is hurt, call 911 to seek immediate assistance. This may seem obvious, but keep in mind that your emotions could get the best of you when disaster strikes, or you could be running off pure adrenalin and not think to double check for injuries.
Step # 5. Call a company specializing in personal property restoration.
From valuables to everyday items, finding a business that cares deeply about your personal belongings is critical. Having your things returned to you after being restored will bring comfort in any crisis and help everyone move on.
Aside from personal property restoration expertise, find a company that will communicate with you around the clock. If a specialist is available 24/7, it's clear they care about delivering quality work.
Step # 6. Call your landlord or home insurance.
Depending on your status as a tenant or homeowner, make the appropriate phone call about what's happened. If you find a great restoration company, they will work with your insurance along the way. Don't try to clean up right away. Your insurance will need documentation of all the damage.
Step # 7. Educate yourself on prevention.
Hindsight is always 20/20. If you're lucky enough to avoid flood damage, take this as your opportunity to be as prepared as possible. And if you know what it's like to go through it, you recognize it's better to be prepared. Here are some preparation tips to keep in mind moving forward:
Keep an emergency phone number list that's easily accessible on your cell phone or online. If you email the list to yourself, you can still log in on another device if your electronics get destroyed.
Ensure every house occupant knows where the fuse box is in the event they need to turn it off quickly and safely.
Consider purchasing water leak sensors, a security system with flood detection, and a sump pump that will further protect your belongings should flooding occur.
Final Thoughts
Your home is supposed to be your sanctuary. That's why when it's subject to a major, or even minor flood damage, life can become overwhelming. Find the best company for the job to restore your belongings and guide you through the process of rebuilding.