the views in this article are those of the author and do not reflect the opinions of Quicken Loans and its team members.
once that your House floods, your headaches are only beginning. Quickly assess the damage due to the floods and to adopt quickly a cleaning plan require immediate attention.
moisture can infiltrate areas some owners may overlook the case, such as the walls inside, under baseboards, window sill plates or false floors. To avoid damage, it is recommended that certified restoration experts inspect and begin mitigation water.
this process can reduce water damage after the flood quickly - ideally within 48 hours of the incident. Water mitigation can reduce the severity of the damage that often follows a flood.
prevent a flood
the best way to avoid water damage is to plan ahead and be prepared.
while as much as 0 percent of disaster-related damage is caused by damage to water due to flooding, plumbing and appliances or systems within a House can also increase the risk of flooding. Main sources not related to the weather of the damage of the floods and the water in a house include indoor plumbing, air conditioners and washing machines. Homeowners can greatly reduce the risk of a preventable home flooding in following the advice of professional technicians.
indoor plumbing
toilet running, dripping sink or dishwasher hose failure may cost each year more money than you think.
"owners should also be aware of drops of taps, leaking pipes under sinks and possible other failure," says Jeff Bell of Mr. Rooter Plumbing South of Massachusetts. "If you put off repairs or use a 'temporary solution', you run the risk of flooding unexpected."
air conditioning
according to the time of year, mold, mildew and even ice, in extreme temperatures, can accumulate inside your condensation drain pipe - a major concern - according to Tina Bramble, owner of the area Serv, a franchise based in Virginia air conditioning company. Hooves can form, causing the water back up into lines, your air conditioner and possibly your home. Installation of a pipe will eliminate the overflowing water and refer her outside or to a domestic sewer. Drains must be correctly angled down and cleared of mud, grass and debris from the water flowing properly.
washing machine
according to Dylan Conner, owner of a franchise of Central Valley (CA) from Mr. Appliance, a company for repair and maintenance of unit, around the water pipe leaks are warning signs. Sometimes, when it comes to domestic water damage, pipes of washing machine failure may be the most common complaints from insurance companies receive when dealing with claims against the floods. Flexible frequent inspections, compared to cracking, drought or rust is recommended. A - 1 or 2 feet - space between the machine and the wall to the movement that the wash cycle is running.
after the flood
before any cleanup can begin, contact an insurance agency. Flood insurance is often not covered by the General insurance of owners, so it is important to ensure that flood protection is added to all existing plans now before a disaster.
in case of damage due to the floods, if the items in the household should be eliminated immediately, photograph their condition. The insurance company will contact and coordinate a visit on-site with a restoration/water restoration company.
, "it is imperative that you call a professional catering company immediately. "It could mean the difference between the restoration of your House quickly provided to loss or in need of vast and expensive reconstruction," said Reed Mattingly, restoration and cleaning company Rainbow International restoration in South Carolina. "Fans of box and shop vacuums only remove as much water. If moisture evacuates the walls and enters the floor, you might be left with the growth of hidden mold and permanent structural damage to your home. "
water damage restoration 101
can take specific measures to reduce destruction of property, to prevent additional water damage and restore your property.
your selection of restoration of water technicians must be certified and trained in the procedures in order to well to dry the entire structure as quickly as possible using state-of-the-art equipment and technology. In addition, moisture are needed to locate the invisible moisture for eyes, like behind the walls or cabinets, where dangerous mold can develop.
when water damage of any nature strikes, time is of the essence. Acting in the first 24 to 48 hours of damage, homeowners can prevent the permanent destruction and reduce repair costs.
and check out this blog post for more information on flooding and other property and casualty insurance.
share your advice of damage against floods or solutions in our comments below.
Mark Welstead is the President of the Rainbow International restoration, restoration and cleaning business.