There’s no doubt about it; having access to water within our homes is both a blessing and a luxury. However, as the saying goes, there is such a thing as too much of a good thing. One of the worst scenarios a homeowner can find themselves in is finding out there is water damage within their home. So, how should you approach this issue? Read on to learn four steps you can take when you suddenly notice water has or is starting to damage the interior of your home.
Begin Looking for the Source
One of the most common mistakes made by homeowners is thinking that their water damage is deriving where the water is standing. This, of course, is not always the case. That is why searching for the source of the leak should be your first step. For example, water found in your basement may be coming from your outside pipes rather than those within your walls.
Begin Removing Important Items
Water can destroy items quickly, and thus you need to begin removing important things from within the area. Even if items are already wet, it is important to begin drying them out as quickly as possible to prevent further deterioration and mold from occurring. Note that you should take this step only after a local professional, like Water Emergency Services Inc, has looked over the area and deemed it safe for people to walk through.
Document and Contact Your Insurance Company
Water damage can be extremely expensive, especially after mold has begun to appear. That is why it is so important to begin documenting the situation and call your insurance provider right after. They will provide you with details as to what you should do next and what will be covered.
Keep an Eye Out for Mold
Even after the water has been removed, there is still a chance that water is sitting behind your walls. That is why it is highly recommended to keep an eye out for mold. This is because mold is not only damaging to your walls but poses a risk to your physical health. In addition, you will want to look for signs such as dark spots appearing within your walls/floors and a musty smell to the room.
As you can see from the information above, taking the proper steps right after noticing water damage is critical to taking control of the situation. Always contact a professional to ensure that the issue is taken care of as best as possible.
