Did you know that water damage impacts approximately 14,000 people in the US per day? Storms, flooding, burst pipes, and appliance malfunctions are some of the common factors that lead to water damage.
If your property has faced water damage, it’s important to know what to do going forward, so your home can be properly restored.
Here’s a water damage restoration process checklist, so you’ll know exactly what to do.
What Is Water Damage Restoration?
Water damage restoration is a service people seek when their property has faced water damage. The ultimate goal of water damage restoration is to restore the property to its original state before the damage occurred.
Your property will first be inspected to determine the severity of the damage. After this, water restoration specialists will perform extraction, dehumidification, sanitation, and finally reconstruction.
Why Use a Water Damage Restoration Checklist?
Water damage is something that should be taken seriously. Untreated water damage can expose you to mold, which can cause severe health issues long term. Having a water damage restoration checklist will help you combat the problem effectively to avoid these issues.
Water Damage Restoration Checklist
1. Find the Source
The first step you should take following water damage is to find out where the source is coming from. Observe your appliances, pipes, roof, and other areas where water damage likely stems from.
Once you find out where the water is coming from, you should make sure to turn it off right away to prevent more damage.
2. Take Care of Your Home
Besides turning off your water, you should also turn off any electrical appliances in your living space for your safety. You should also move your furniture and other belongings to a designated area, away from the water.
3. Inspect the Water Damage
Before the specialists arrive, you will want to inspect the damage for yourself to see how severe it is. Be sure to take note of what belongings, furniture, and appliances were affected by the damage as well.
Related Article: 5 Signs Of Water Damage In Walls
4. Document Your Losses (Take Photos of Damage)
When filing your damage claim, it is important to have documented evidence of the water damage. Be sure to take photos of all the damage and record the date and time it occurred. Remember, you can never have enough evidence, so take as many photos or video recordings as possible.
5. Call a Water Damage Restoration Company
The next step is to contact a water damage restoration company that will help you restore your property. It’s best to find a company with 24/7 emergency services like our team at DRIRITE®. This way your damage can be taken care of ASAP.
6. Contact Your Insurance Company
When water damage affects your property, you will need to file a claim with your insurance company, so you can receive coverage for the damages that have occurred. It’s also important to find out if your insurance company covers relocation or car rentals should that be necessary.
7. Remove Standing Water Quickly
Any standing water should be immediately removed from your property before it causes more damage. Before professionals arrive, you may use buckets to capture any falling water. If you own a sump pump, now would be a good time to turn it on.
8. Move Salvageable Items to a Safe Place
If you have any salvageable items, you will want to keep them in a dry area. If you have no dry area available, you could choose to have them stored in a warehouse. Your water restoration company can help you get these items back into shape by drying them and sanitizing them.
9. Watch For Mold
Mold is one of the biggest concerns that comes with water damage. In fact, you may be surprised to learn that mold growth may occur only 24 hours after the damage. Observe the drywall, carpets, walls, and other affected areas to look for any signs of mold growth. Another indicator of mold is a musty odor coming from the area.
10. Review the Restoration
After your property has been restored to its original condition, you will want to make sure there are no lingering issues that occur. Keep your eye out for any other suspicious leaks or appliance issues following your restoration and don’t hesitate to call your water restoration specialists if you have any questions or concerns.
Hire DRIRITE for Water Damage Restoration in Tampa, FL
If you’re looking for a trusted water restoration company in Tampa, FL, DRIRITE® is here for you. We will provide you with structural drying, water damage cleanup, and water restoration services with technicians who are available 24/7.
By utilizing our services, we can assure you that your damages will be thoroughly restored to look as good as new.
Give us a call at (813) 796-7797 or get in touch with us today on our website.
Chief Executive Officer
Mike Campbell is a highly experienced professional specializing in structural drying, mold remediation, and environmental consulting. With certifications such as OSHA HAZWOPER, council-certified microbial remediator, and state of Florida licensed mold remediator, he offers tailored solutions to clients at DriRite. With specialized training from the IICRC, Mike is equipped with advanced skills in categories such as applied structural drying, commercial drying, and water damage restoration. This expertise allows him to deliver comprehensive and effective solutions to water-related issues. His dedication to providing exceptional service and expertise makes him a valuable resource in the field.
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