Has Your Home Been Hit By A Flood? Here Are Your Next Steps

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The rain has been pouring down all over the country, and the chances are lots of people might be experiencing flooding. Water can be disastrous to a home as it will soak into every sinew and destroy everything in its path. To be honest, the only thing homeowners can do is let nature take its course and try and restore peace after the fact. That isn’t what most people want to hear, but it is the truth.

Homes are not always completely ruined by flooding, so there is a chance that a homeowner can save their house if they act quickly. This is what property owners need to do if they experience flooding.

Stay Safe

Everyone wants to return home as soon as possible after a flood. However, it is important to remember that the area is dangerous and poses a risk to health. So, before any enters the property, the proper security checks need to be made, as well as all the relevant safety measures. The last thing any homeowner wants is to walk in the front door and find them in a hazardous situation. Check for any structural damage by looking for cracks in the walls and on the floor, and also, turn off all the gas and electric. To see in the gloom, use a flashlight.

Wear The Right Gear

When entering a water damaged house, there is no telling what the health risk is like. Even if it seems like it is just water, it could be water that is full of sewage and other chemicals. It is important, therefore, that anyone who wants to go inside has all the right equipment. Obviously, that means Wellington boots, waders, and waterproofs. Plus, it also means a face mask to stop any of the substances in the air being breathed in through the nose or the mouth.

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Take Pictures

Pictures are essential because the insurance company will need them as proof that the damage occurred. If a claimant doesn’t have any evidence, the insurance company will not pay for any of the damage. There is no exact science behind gathering evidence. So, start by taking pictures of the areas worst affected by the water, and move to the next area. A video is also a good idea because it puts the damage into perspective. And, it is always a good idea to have a backup plan if the images don’t have the correct effect.

Call The Insurance Company

No one wants to pay for water damage, especially when the damage is so extensive. That’s why every homeowner should have a comprehensive insurance policy. A good insurance company will uphold their end of the bargain and pay the water damage restoration that the property needs. As long as it is in the policy, they shouldn’t have too much of a problem picking up the bill.

Secure The Property

There are reports of opportunists targeting houses that have been subject to water damage. The last thing any property owner needs is for their house to be burgled. That is why it is important to secure the area. Make sure all the locks work and that the water has not made it easier to enter the property.

Finally, stay positive. It is not an ideal scenario, but it is also not the end of the world.

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