Repairing Flood Damage In 5 Easy To Do Steps

An aerial view of flood damage to southern Indiana, USA from an UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter June 12, 2008 – U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Master Sgt. John S. Chapman

Rains are a blessing but floods spell nothing but disaster. Floods not only put your life in danger but also cause major damage to your property and assets. Even after the water has receded, the troubles don’t end. Here’s a checklist that will guide you through the next floods:

Turn off the electricity /gas supply

You may have learned this in high school, but it is time to put the science theory into practice. If there is a flood warning issued in your area, cut off your home’s electricity supply to make sure there are no accidents. Gas supply also should be turned off, as there could be a chance of a gas leakage. Don’t turn on the electricity or gas supply until the floodwater has receded and a professional has thoroughly checked your home.

Safety comes first:

As the water level outside the house rises, water will find all possible ways to enter your home. Therefore, create barriers to stop the water from entering inside otherwise it will start damaging the interiors. If there are no means to stop the gushing water, then move your family to an upper level and shift in all the furniture and personal items to the upper floor as well. Make sure you have enough supplies for your family, which includes food, water and first aid.

Post flood inspection:

First of all, bring in the professionals to assess the damage and ensure that the house is safe and has not suffered any structural damage. Next, before you move into the house and touch the furniture, make sure to click enough pictures. Document all the damages, as it will help you in your insurance claim. Call in the insurance agent at the earliest and submit your claim.
Keep children out of the house while the inspection is on and beware of rodents, snakes and animals that may have entered your home. Also check for signs of sagging as water may be trapped in the floors or ceiling.

Repair or remove:

Be very careful when dealing with damaged goods within the house. Wear protective gloves before touching anything. If the damages are not too much, then you can opt for repairs to make your home as good as new. If your furniture as been soaked beyond repair, it’s best you remove all such furniture out of the house. All food items and medicines must be thrown out of the house. Other smaller items in the house such as toys, cosmetics, carpets, utensils etc. may have turned toxic. Therefore, it is best to replace them. Sanitize the entire home before you decide to move in with your family.

Leave your home:

Once the water has been thoroughly pumped out, you will be able to see the actual damage done. If the professionals have pointed out that there is excessive water damage, it’s recommended you move out of your house to protect your health. There are high chances of catching infections and waterborne diseases that can risk the entire family’s health.  Mold is also common and it makes the air unsafe for asthmatic individuals.

In the case of a flood, make sure you give first preference to your family and then look towards securing your house. Though, the safety should be given first priority at all times.

Kenneth Murray has been a part of the construction business for more than three decades now and is the owner of a small but a very profitable family construction company. He says they provide cheap but quality damage restoration services.