What to do if you have a Water Damage

2/15/2019 (Permalink)

What to Do When You Have Water Damage

SERVPRO has restored countless water losses and know exactly what needs to be done to get you back to preloss condition quickly.

It’s important to act fast because any delay in responding not only can cause additional damage to occur, but many insurance policies require that you do everything you can to protect the property from additional damage.

SERVPRO will bill your insurance company directly and all necessary work will be performed with as little inconvenience and intrusion as possible. So call our 24-hour emergency line and we’ll be on our way fast.

Until we arrive, here are some things you can do to minimize additional damage and speed the process of getting you back to normal.

• If circuit breakers are safely accessible, turn off power in the affected areas.
• Turn off the source of water if safely accessible.
• Blot the water with towels or mop the wet area if possible.
• Remove wet rugs, newspapers, books and magazines. These items can cause staining.
• Remove lamps and other items from wood furniture. If surfaces are damp, wipe them dry.
• All moisture sensitive items should be removed from wet areas and propped up in a dry, safe place.
• To prevent further water damage to furniture, place foil or plywood under the legs.
• Furniture skirts should be lifted off of damp floors with clothespins.
• Wet draperies should be hung to dry at room temperature, as well as any affected furs and leather goods.
• Avoid all contact with wet areas if the water clearly came from a contaminated source.
• Wash yourself immediately if you have come into contact with contaminated water.
• Avoid spreading contaminated water from room to room.
• Do not turn on heating or air conditioning units, as contaminated air can be spread this way.
• Stay away from any room where there is a shock hazard from exposed electricity outlets or equipment.
• Do not use ceiling fixtures, fans or any other electric devices while standing on wet flooring of any type.
• Do not attempt to remove water with a standard vacuum cleaner or dry the area using household fans. These machines could get damaged or you could be injured.