Water damage occurs for a number of reasons, including a home flood or natural disaster. Disaster clean up is part of the process of recovering from water damage but it is important to consider the steps you should take to start this. There are some steps that everyone needs to take when they suffer from some type of water damage in their home.
Turn Off the Water Source
It doesn't matter if the flood is due to a burst water main, a natural disaster or an overflowing toilet, turning off the water supply is the first step to take. This prevents any further damage happening. If you are unsure about this step, contact a plumber or your landlord -- if you are renting -- to find out where the valve is located.
Don't Panic
It is easy to start panicking at a time like this but it will make the situation worse. You need to think logically and rationally. Find out why and the amount of damage that has occurred to take steps to fix the issue.
Try to Prevent the Damage Getting Worse
Turning the water off is just one thing. You need to take steps to prevent the damage from occurring to other items of furniture or materials. Pin up your drapes and curtains, life the upholstered furniture skirts out of the water and place aluminum foil underneath furniture legs to prevent water stains.
Remove Items that Will Stain
Books, fabrics, pots and shoes can all stain when they have suffered water damage. Protect your carpet by removing them out of the way. Check how much damage has occurred to the various items to see if they are salvageable or need throwing into the trash.
Use a Fan
A portable fan or even HVAC fan unit will help to speed up the process of drying flooring, furniture and other affected items. Do not use these items if they also suffered damage. Speak to friends about borrowing more fans to help with your water damage clean up.
Help Cupboards and Wardrobes Dry Easier
Remove drawers, clothes and anything else from any cupboards or wardrobes. It will be easier to dry them separately than together. Take the clothes out of the drawers and place them somewhere dry.
Water damage is not the end of the world but can be difficult to fix. Find somewhere else to stay while the water damage occurs. Give your contact information to your insurance company, agent and other important companies so they can keep in touch throughout the process.
