Steps to Take When Dealing with Water Damage

10/13/2016 (Permalink)

Flooding can cause large scale water damage. Call SERVPRO to remediate!

Quick Actions Can Help Reduce Damages

Illinois residents are no strangers to storms that bring heavy rain, tornado strength winds and flash flooding. Unfortunately, flooding is the result of these events. To keep your family safe, protective practices must be instituted within the first 24 hours.
 
If residential flooding appears ominous to cause serious water damage and it seems that you and your family may be displaced, take these steps quickly. Turn the water off and all electrical connections within the home. Even if the power is interrupted, it is still a good idea to go to your fuse box and turn off the main.
 
Hopefully, you will be able to return to your Chicago home after waters have receded. There are precautions that must be taken, but they should be performed by a professional restoration service like SERVPRO. First, your home must be checked for damage to your home, i.e., cracks or warping. If you suspect damage to utility or sewer lines, immediately contact your local utility company.
 
Don't attempt to remove the water or make repairs. Documentation should also be done via photographs or make a video with your cellphone. A digital history is better because water removal efforts can be stored electronically for evidence later. If you do not document your work, you could potentially decrease the amount of your claim coverage.
 
Standing waters during the first 24 hours, is an environment for contamination. SERVPRO should conduct your home's inspection because they are trained in bio-hazard conditions. Contact your insurance carrier to file a claim. Groundwater is not always covered, therefore, you will need talk with the insurance carrier to determine the extent of your coverage. Here again, SERVPRO is available to help with your claim process.
 
Don't forget that mold can develop within 24 to 48 hours after any type of water damage. A professional restoration service can remove all your wet contents quickly. SERVPRO is a remediation company whose motto is to “restore” not “destroy.” They will work with you to decide what can and can not be saved and restored.
 
If your first 24 hours involves your inability to move back into your home, then your property should be secured. Depending on the water damage, a restoration service can help secure your windows, doors and use a tarp for any damage to your roof. The perimeter of your home must also be secured with temporary fencing.
 
Let SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City allay your fears about how to care for your home after a flood. We are leaders in the restoration industry. With our experience, training and state-of-the-art equipment and methods, it is our goal to have you back into your home very soon. Call us today and let us restore you back to normal again - (773) 337-3900.