6 Action Steps When Dealing with Water Damage in Your Home

Water damage caused by spring rains, flooded basement, overflowing faucet, toilet tank, refrigerator ice maker hoses, failed water heater, or other broken or burst supply pipes is all together a messy and stressful situation.

Take these 6 action steps when dealing with water damage inside your home:

1) SAFETY FIRST! Turn OFF Electricity from the Electrical Box

Before going into an area affected by water, turn off your electricity in that area of your home. Is the water over the electrical

sockets on the floor or walls? If so, DO NOT TOUCH! After electricity is turned off, unplug all electronics to ensure that you will avoid shock.

2) Stop the Water Source

Find where the water is entering into your home and try to stop or minimize the flow. If water damage is occurring because of an overflowing faucet, then turning off the faucet is easy. But if you have a broken pipe, you must shut off the water to your home right away and immediately call a plumber!

You may be able to clean and dry small areas affected by water damage but large areas that include carpet and pad, wood floors, linoleum, drywall, and any additional levels below the area that incurred water damage, such as a ceiling – will have to be cleaned and dried out by a professional.

3) Call A Professional Restoration Company AND Your Insurance Company

If the area damaged by water is large, immediately call a professional water damage restoration company, such as A&J Specialty Services, Inc. DKI if you live or work in the Madison, WI or Southern WI area. The faster you call and get a restoration company to your home, the quicker the drying process can begin. While restoration technicians are in-route, your next call should be to your insurance company or insurance agent. You can submit for a claim (if covered) and have your claim number ready for the restoration company upon their arrival.

4) Take Pictures of the Damaged Area(s)

Taking pictures of the damages right away will help you and your insurance company throughout the claim. If possible, take pictures of the source (where the water came from), all areas that were affected by the water including walls and ceilings, electronics, and any other items that you want documented for your insurance claim (if applicable).

5) Remove All Light or Movable Items

Remove any items or furniture that would make it easier for you or water damage technicians to start cleaning. WARNING! Water causes items to become very heavy. If you are unable to move items, such as couches and chairs, leave them for the technicians to handle. Keep your safety a priority!

6) Remove the Water

When trying to remove water, use a wet vacuum, cloths, or a mop to remove as much of the water as possible. Restoration technicians will be able to remove the water but any immediate actions will help reduce additional damages.

Taking immediate action when dealing with water in your home will reduce the risk of incurring additional damages, costs, and stress. Take a moment and educate yourself on where your water shut off valves are located, who you would call for help, and any preventative measures you could proactively take.