Key Takeaways for Home Flooding
- A flooded home is a homeowner’s worst nightmare, but it’s important to stay calm and alert and prioritize safety if it occurs.
- Identify the source of the flooding, turn off the electricity, and evacuate the area if necessary.
- The cost of repairing flood damage can vary depending on the type of damage and materials used in your home.
- If your insurance doesn’t cover the cost, you may be able to get financial assistance from the government or other organizations.
Imagine that it’s raining heavily outside, and you breathe a sigh of relief knowing you’re safe and comfortable in your home. Just then, you peer out the window to see that water is rapidly accumulating in your yard and realize with horror that the possibility of your house flooding is becoming more and more likely with each passing minute. If this scenario sounds eerily familiar, don’t panic!
Here is a brief but helpful guide on what to do if your house begins to flood in order to save your home and minimize any water damage:
Step 1: Identify the Source of the Flood
If your home is flooding, the first thing you need to do is identify the source of water. Is it coming in from a broken pipe? Leaking through the walls or ceiling? Or is it an external source, like a river or lake? Once you know where the water is coming from, you can start to take steps to stop the flow and begin the cleanup process.
For example, if a burst pipe is the cause, you’ll need to shut off the main water valve and call a plumber.
Suppose the flooding is coming from an external source. In that case, you’ll need to sandbag any doors or windows vulnerable to water damage.
In either case, it’s important to act quickly to minimize the damage caused by the flood.
Step 2: Turn Off the Electricity Safely
The second step is to turn off the electricity. This is only possible if you can reach the breaker box without stepping into the water. Call an electrician if you have to enter the water to turn off the electricity. It’s not worth risking your life for. Once the electricity is turned off, unplug any electronics in the water.
Step 3: Prioritize Safety and Evacuate
Evacuate the area that has been flooded. This is non-negotiable. The water may be contaminated, and hidden dangers may lurk beneath the surface. In addition, floodwaters can rise quickly and without warning. It is simply not worth the risk to stay.
Step 4: Contact Your Insurance Company
Once you’re all on solid ground, your next call should be to your insurance company. Most homeowners’ policies cover flooding, so you may be able to get some financial assistance to help with repairs. And even if your policy doesn’t cover flooding specifically, there’s a good chance it will cover other damage (like water damage to your walls or furniture). So, it’s worth making that call and finding out for sure.
Step 5: Begin Repairs with Professional Help
You’ll need to start thinking about the practicalities of repairing the damage and getting your life back to normal once the flood has calmed down. This will likely entail hiring a professional restoration company to come in and assess the damage.
In the meantime, try to salvage any belongings not damaged by the floodwaters. And most importantly, don’t go into the house until it has been declared safe by a professional! Floods can cause all sorts of hidden dangers, so it’s best not to take any chances.
Hopefully, you never have to experience the nightmare of a flooded home or significant water damage. But if you follow these steps and remain calm, you will get through it as safely and efficiently as possible.
Understanding the Cost of Repairing a Flooded Home
The cost of flood damage repairs can vary depending on the extent of the damage and the type of materials used in your home.
It may cost anywhere between $4 to $6.50 per square foot.
For example, if your home has been flooded with clean water, the damage may be less extensive than if it has been flooded with contaminated water. In general, it is important to act quickly in such a situation to minimize the amount of damage.
If your insurance doesn’t cover the repair cost, you may be able to get financial assistance from the government or other organizations. You can also try negotiating with your mortgage lender or landlord to see if they will help cover the cost of repairs. No matter how you pay for it, repairing flood damage to your home can be expensive.
Proactive Steps to Minimize Flood Damage
A flood is one of the most destructive natural disasters that can befall a home. It can destroy many of your possessions in just a few minutes, and your home could be left uninhabitable.
Fortunately, taking a few proactive steps can minimize the damage caused by a flood and make the cleanup process much easier.
- To prevent flooding, you can redirect rainwater away from your home. You can do this by installing gutters & downspouts and grading your landscaping so that water flows away from the foundation.
- In addition, you should regularly clean out your gutters and downspouts to ensure they are free of debris.
- Another way to reduce the risk of flooding is to seal any cracks or gaps in your home’s foundation. Water can seep through even the smallest openings, so it’s important to ensure that the foundation is well-sealed.
- Finally, it would be best if you considered investing in flood insurance. While it won’t prevent a flood from happening, it will help you cover the cost of repairs and replacement.
How to Dry Out Your Home After Flooding
As soon as you find out there’s flood damage, begin the process of drying out your home!
- If possible, open all doors and windows to allow for air circulation.
- Turn on any fans or dehumidifiers you have available.
- If you don’t have any of these things on hand, you can also place bowls of water around the room to help absorb moisture from the air.
- Monitor the affected area closely over the next few days or weeks, as mold and mildew can begin to grow quickly in damp conditions. If you see any signs of mold growth, call the professionals.
Professional Water Damage Restoration in Atlanta, GA
A flooded home is a nightmare, but by taking quick and decisive action, you can minimize the damage. Be sure to dry out the affected area completely to prevent mold growth, and if you have any further questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional for assistance.
If you’re dealing with water damage, you need the pros at Leak Pros of Georgia in Tucker. We’ve got the experience and the know-how to deal with water damage and restore your home to its pre-damaged state. We’re available 24/7 to respond to your call, and we’ll work quickly and efficiently to minimize the damage and help you get your life back on track. Don’t let water damage ruin your home or business – get your free estimate from Leak Pros of Georgia today!
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