How to be Prepared for Water Damage
9/2/2020 (Permalink)
Happy National Preparedness Month!
We know things happen in a blink of an eye, which is why we’re available all day, every day. The best thing you can do in those situations is to have a plan in case a water emergency happens. I’ll be listing some important things you can add to your plan in case you experience a water emergency at your home or business.
- First things first, protect yourself and your possessions. Try to shut off any electricity to an affected area by switching off the circuit breaker or unplugging any devices. Also, rescue any important documents or electronics.
- Next, figure out the source of the water and try to stop the water from increasing any damage. The most likely source is a burst pipe or hot water tank leak. Use your shut off valve. If the leak is on the ceiling, call in a professional to locate the source. Also, look out for mold, which can be identified by a musty smell or discolored ceilings/walls.
- After trying to limit the damage, call your insurance provider and figure out any steps you need to take. You should also have a claims adjuster come out and document the damage and estimate the cost of repairs. Take photos of the damage and any affected valuables.
- Start the process of drying out your property. You could hang up rugs and move any furniture from the affected area. Also, use fans or dehumidifiers to dry wet areas.