What to Do Immediately After Water Damage: Comprehensive Guide
At Authorized Restoration Services, we know how overwhelming water damage can be. As a trusted water restoration company, we have helped countless homeowners overcome the challenges of water disasters. To minimize damage and initiate the recovery process, quick and effective action is essential. Here is our professional step-by-step guide to help you through this difficult time.
Your safety is our top priority. Make sure the area is safe before repairing water damage:
- Turn off the power: water and electricity don’t mix. If it’s safe to do so, turn off the power to the affected area to avoid danger.
- Avoid contact with contaminated water: floodwater or sewer back-up may contain harmful substances. Wear protective clothing like gloves and boots or leave the job to our professionals.
- Check for structural safety: Water can compromise structural integrity. If you notice sagging ceilings or warped floors, wait until our team has assessed the situation.
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Stop the water source
It is important to identify the source of the water and stop it:
- If a pipe bursts, the main water supply must be turned off.
- If the roof is leaking, try to contain the water with buckets or tarps until repairs can be made.
- In the event of a flood, follow local safety guidelines and contact us for assistance.
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Document the damage
Before you start cleaning, take pictures and videos of the damage for your insurance claim. In addition, we can help you with detailed documentation to ensure you get the insurance coverage you deserve.
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Contact your insurance company
Notify your insurance company as soon as possible. As experts, we are very familiar with the complexities of water damage. We work with all insurance companies for you as a homeowner. Your insurance company can give you recommendations on who to contact. As a homeowner, you have the right to work with whoever you feel is best suited for you. We are here to help. Our team works directly with insurance investigators to streamline the process for you.
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Start water extraction
The faster standing water is removed, the better:
- For minor damage, use a mop, bucket, or wet/dry vacuum.
- For larger floods, our professional equipment can remove water quickly and efficiently, minimizing damage and preventing further problems.
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Drying and dehumidification
To prevent mold and long-term damage, effective drying is essential:
- Open windows and doors to improve ventilation.
- Use fans and dehumidifiers to speed up drying. We use industrial equipment to ensure thorough drying of even hard-to-reach areas.
- Remove and store wet items safely to help the area dry faster.
Mold can begin to grow within 24-48 hours. During our restoration process:
- We check for visible mold and hidden moisture.
- We use modern technology and equipment to prevent and eliminate mold growth.
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Clean and Disinfect
Water damage can leave behind bacteria and other contaminants. Our team will thoroughly clean and disinfect all affected surfaces with industry-approved solutions, ensuring the safety and hygiene of your home. We maintain records and ingredient lists, which we can provide upon request.
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Repair and Restore
Once the area is dry, focus on restoring your home:
- Repair any plumbing or roofing issues that caused the damage.
- Replace damaged drywall, flooring, and insulation.
- Restore furniture and belongings if possible or advise on replacement.
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Prepare for the Future
Preventive measures can reduce the risk of future water damage. Our experts can:
- Inspect and maintain pipes and roofs.
- Install submersible pumps or check valves.
- Recommend drainage solutions to divert water away from your home’s foundation.
Why Choose Authorized Restoration Services County?
At Authorized Restoration Services, we specialize in fast and reliable water damage cleanup. With our experience, state-of-the-art equipment, and dedicated customer service, we can help you get your home back to normal as quickly and safely as possible.
Contact us today for our 24/7 emergency service and let us do the hard work so you can focus on what matters most.