Avoid further safety hazards. While you may be antsy to return home, always wait for the go-ahead from emergency officials before you head into the affected areas. There are many dangers that can arise in the aftermath of a flood, such as hazardous contamination, live electrical currents traveling through water and dangerous animals that have been carried by the flood. Avoid putting yourself in harm’s way by waiting until officials have deemed it safe.

Air out the home. As long as your area is free of rain or other risks, opening doors and windows to allow the house to air out can mitigate the damage your home sustains. The air can quickly become stale if enclosed in the home for long, so you may want to let it air out for a bit before beginning the cleanup process. Though mold growth will likely have already started, increasing airflow can prevent it from worsening with time.

Document the damages. It is a common reaction to walk in and begin cleaning up your household right away, but it is always advised to take thorough photographs before you do so. Flood coverage is generally an extra policy that homeowners must purchase, but even if you do not have coverage, there may be a possibility that you can file for some of the damages in the aftermath with evidence.

Contact your restoration and insurance companies right away. Contacting the necessary parties after you sustain damage is also a high priority for the recovery process. Getting in touch with your insurance company will help you understand if you are eligible to file a claim, and getting in touch with your restoration company will help you start recovery much more quickly. The longer flood damage is left untreated, the more extensive it can be, so it is wise to start the process quickly for best results.

If your home has been damaged in a flood, we are here for you. You can contact us ²⁴⁄₇ to receive a quick response and set the restoration process in motion.