Precautions In Returning Home After A Flood

9/24/2021 (Permalink)

A quick response after a flood is important in the restoration process.

If you have experienced a flood that has impacted your home, it is common to feel anxious returning when the water recedes and the restoration process begins.

While recovering from a flood as quickly is advised, it is important to keep safety in mind. Working safely to restore your home will help the recovery process smoother and prevent any injuries or further damage from occurring.

Tips for Returning to Your Household After a Flood

Avoid further safety hazards. While you may be ready to get home, you should never do so without first getting the go-ahead from local officials. Between contaminated floodwaters, electrical issues and other various dangers, you should always listen to authorities regarding what is and is not safe to do.

Air out the home. If there is no upcoming inclement weather, opening doors and windows up will help rid the home of stale and hazardous air. Mold growth will have likely already started if surfaces are wet, but increasing air circulation can prevent it from getting out of hand. If it has been a few days since you have been able to enter the house, entering to begin the airing out process and then leaving to let the toxic air escape is advised.

Document the damages. Taking action right away is a natural reaction to discovering the flood damage to your home, but documenting the damages with photographic evidence first is advised. Though not all instances of flooding are covered by insurance, if you have a flood policy in place or the incident is covered, having these photographs can help you maximize your claim.

Contact your restoration and insurance companies immediately. Keeping your insurance company in the loop regarding flood damages is a top priority so you can make any claims you are eligible for. After contacting them, get in touch with SERVPRO so you can get a quick response and begin the recovery. The longer water damage is allowed to sit, the more detrimental it can be, so starting restoration is always advised.