Water damage is among the most devastating property disasters. Storms, floods, weakened roofs, HVAC leaks, broken pipes, and overflowing appliances are all water problems that can be stressful and harmful to a home’s safety and value. Thus, taking swift action to address this emergency is crucial to limit further property damage.
The golden rule for dealing with an accidental discharge of water at home or business is to have a plan you can implement promptly to halt the harm. The longer you wait to take action, the more extensive the damage to your property will become. If your home or business sustains accidental water damage, having a strategy in place for dealing with the situation in the event of an emergency may ensure a quick and painless restoration process. For example, after a flood, you can call water clean up experts who will walk you through the damage assessment process. Then, you can make educated choices about how to fix your property.
Additionally, your accidental water damage insurance provider is a crucial resource in an unexpected crisis. Homeowner’s insurance mainly covers repairs after a disaster, such as a broken pipe, rainwater entering through a window, or ice dams forming on your roof.
Water damage is something that no one wants to think about, but if it happens to you then it is better to be prepared. Quick action is the best course of treatment when it comes to repairing water damage in your home. Without quick action other sneaky problems can occur like the ones listed below.
Appliance Issues
Many people think about electricity when it comes to water damage, but gas powered appliances should be a concern as well. These appliances do not mix well with water. Corrosion to these appliances should be a concern and should not be ignored. Ignoring this simple thing could lead to another unexpected surprise after the damage repair from the water is complete. All gas powered appliances should be thoroughly checked before usage to ensure they are able to safely operate.
Hazards
When water rises the first thing many people think about is what the water is going to come in contact with. The last thing many people think about is what is in the water that is causing the damage. This should be as much of a concern as what the water is going to damage. Things floating in the water are hazardous and can cause problems themselves. Sewer water and debris that has lead in it can quickly cause additional concerns as far as the water is concerned, since these remnants can easily be left over in the things the water has touched.
Structural Integrity
Water is a strong substance, which can erode rock over time. Granted most water damage is not sitting for years in your house, but unfortunately it doesn’t take years of water for structural damage to occur. Water tends to put tremendous strain on drywall in your home and can do damage to the structural foundation of your home. This can cause cracks and other leaks in your residential home if not remedied in a timely manner.
Growing Things
Everyone knows that it is not good for water to stand for long periods of time, or for things to remain damp from water damage, but what most people don’t know is how quickly things can get bad from this water. Mold and mildew can form which many people are aware of, but the rate at which these things can start growing may surprise you. Within 24 hours these things can begin to grow in your house. Not only does a rancid odor accompany mold and mildew but health concerns for you and your family do as well.
Acting quickly to remove water can save structural pieces as well as the foundation of your home and give you peace of mind. Water damage is any homeowner’s worst nightmare, but having a plan and knowing what to do can help. A detailed plan with names and numbers of contractors, appliance people and utility companies can help make an unthinkable situation a little more calm.
