Preparing For Water Damage Cleanup

Before any water damage cleanup can begin in your Sandusky home, there are some things you can do to limit any further damage and prevent any potential injuries brought on by water damage. Since water damage cleanup needs to begin right away, being prepared to respond quickly and correctly will help make the process much more smooth and more efficient. 

Water Damage Cleanup Sandusky

Here are some tips the experts at RestorePro recommend you follow as soon as you notice water damage before cleanup begins.

1. Make an immediate call to your homeowner’s insurance agent. It is crucial to submit a claim before any of the damage is cleaned up to see what coverage you are eligible for, regardless of whether your policy specifically mentions your particular incidence of water damage. Make sure you have documented all damages and made thorough records before you remove any damaged belongings and before any water damage cleanup begins. Make detailed lists of damaged locations and possessions in your home, and even take pictures and videos to prove your losses. 
2. The next call you need to make is to a water damage cleanup company. With the right tools, equipment, training, and experience, water damage cleanup professionals will be able to respond quickly to your situation and get the water removed, dried, and cleaned up while mitigating further damage from affecting your home and property. While you are waiting for the water damage cleanup to arrive, continue to follow the next steps outlined.
3. Keep away from the region that has been affected by water damage, especially if it is flooded, in case the water is contaminated. Even if the water appears clear, it could contain harmful chemicals, bacteria, and other microbes that make contact with it hazardous. To prevent any unnecessary exposure to dangerous substances, it is advised to keep children and pets away from the damaged area also.  If the food storage space has water damage, make sure to throw away food items or beverages that may have come in contact with the water; it is better to be safe than sorry.
4. Turn off power to the affected area. If there is any potential that the electrical system has been compromised by water damage, there is a high risk of shock. Water and electricity do not mix, so the best practice is to turn off the power and wait until the water has been cleaned up and dried and the electrical system has been deemed safe by a trained professional before restoring power or attempting to turn anything on. 
5. Recognize that there are risks associated with water damage, and exercise caution around these possible risks. Water damage can compromise the structural integrity of your home. Water damage can cause wood to rot, weakening wall supports, floor joists, and even ceilings. Additionally, water damage can cause sheetrock to warp, bend, crack, and weaken. 

If there is any chance that the integrity of your home could be compromised by water damage, do not enter the area until a specialist has pronounced it safe.