If a sudden storm renders your home uninhabitable due to flooding or a burst pipe, you might be stumped about the next steps you need to take. And although water damage can be incredibly destructive, you can reclaim your home by taking some critical steps.
But first, in case you are looking for a water damage restoration in Boise, Idaho, consider DrierHomes – a go-to choice for many homeowners in the area, thanks to the firm’s professionalism, prompt response, vast experience, and top-of-the-line customer service.
Well then, how do you handle such a chaotic situation? Let’s discuss the steps you need to take if your home experiences water damage.
1. Find the Genesis of the Problem
Water damage typically starts with a flood, leak, or some other source of water intrusion. Damage occasioned by a flood is usually sudden and requires swift action, while damage from a slower-developing leak occurs over time.
Thus, it pays to swing into action immediately and find the source of your woes before matters get out of hand. If the leak is due to a burst pipe, turn off the water supply immediately at the main shut-off valve to prevent further damage. But if you can’t trace the leak or source of damage, consider enlisting a professional plumbing expert to help you out.
2. Take Photos
You need to document the damage to provide proof of the situation when filing an insurance claim (more on this below). So, take pictures of the affected area and all the damaged items therein. Photos can also help you monitor the progression of the damage. And if you have images showing the state of your home before the damage occurred, it’s even better.
Such documentation may also come in handy should you take legal action against an insurer for failing to honor your claim. While at it, assess the damage caused and prepare a list of ruined items. This will serve as an inventory for your insurance claim, so be thorough.
The list should include furniture, carpets, drywall, floors, personal items – every affected item or surface. Even if the damage appears minimal, take photos for future reference.
3. File an Insurance Claim
Contact your insurance company and file a water damage claim if the damage resulted from a covered peril. To facilitate this process, present the images of the damaged area (mentioned above) and a list of all the destroyed items.
The insurance firm will then send an adjuster to assess the damage and may offer a settlement based on the findings. They can also recommend a reliable restoration service provider in your area.
However, note that the claims process may be long and tedious, so prepare to wait it out. And depending on the situation and your policy, you may have to pay a deductible before the insurer can process your claim.
4. Clean Up
Try to mitigate the damage as much as you can by salvaging possessions that are still usable. Place them in a safe place with adequate air circulation to prevent mold growth. If you have rugs and other movable items, take them out of the house and spread them out in direct sunlight for faster drying.
Then, grab a mop and rugs to clean the affected area before restoration professionals arrive on-site. In case of a flood, use a wet vac or a pump (if available) to get rid of the water from your home.
The steps you take to minimize damage can significantly reduce the restoration cost. Plus, cleaning up right away may increase the chances of a successful claim.
5. Get Professional Assistance
Water restoration companies have specialized technicians who know how to deal effectively with water damage. The firm may deploy equipment like dehumidifiers, water extractors, air scrubbers, and industrial-grade fans to dry out your home and restore it to its former glory. They can also comprehensively evaluate the damage and suggest appropriate corrective actions.
Choose a contractor with experience addressing water damage. They should also have proper licensing and certification, so you’re sure they can provide reliable remediation services.
Experienced providers also understand the intricacies of handling insurance companies, implying they can help you navigate the claims process to get the most out of it. And should you run into issues with the insurer, they can lend a helping hand. For instance, they may offer to enlist the services of a public adjuster to give your case the attention it deserves.
How well you handle an unexpected situation usually determines the outcome. While the sheer magnitude of the work involved may seem too much to bear, you can recover from water-induced damage faster by following our outlined steps.
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