The Aftermath of a Storm

6/20/2017 (Permalink)

The Aftermath of a Storm

Storm damage is not without a long list of misconceptions, including the very mistaken belief it’s only dangerous if it’s major flood damage. The truth is even the smallest amount of damage from water is potentially hazardous, and water cleanup must be immediate. When a person finds water in the home or water in the business, it’s already damaging despite the small amount. Restoration is a must, and mitigation cannot wait in a situation like this. It’s time to break down the facts about water in the home, water in the business, drying and water cleanup as it pertains to home and business owners alike.

Not All Flood Damage is Covered

The simple truth is not all water or flood damage is covered by homeowner’s insurance policies. Unless a homeowner does serious checking and takes the time to read the contract they sign prior to signing it, they might not have coverage for water cleanup and the damage caused. Many water protection policies are separate additions to a standard policy, which leaves some home and business owners in financial trouble when water damage occurs.

Flood damage is different than other water damage from a storm or a leaking pipe or sewage issues, which is why homeowners and business owners must take the time to carefully read through insurance policies before signing on the dotted line.

Water Cleanup Must Occur Right Away

Some people imagine they have a few days to get things in order before they must begin the water cleanup and drying process, but it’s not true. Water damage is dangerous, and it takes but a few hours for it to allow mold growth to occur. If there is water in the home or water in the office, owners must get a restoration specialist out immediately. Mitigation is best when it occurs immediately following damage from water. The first step after identifying water in the home or water in the business is to call for mitigation and restoration. The drying process is very specific, and cleanup takes some time.

Not All Water is Created Equal

It’s a safe bet that no one should enter a home or business where water is present for several reasons. The first is live power sources make the situation too dangerous. The second reason is not all water is created equal. If the damage is from flood damage living next door to an ocean or lake, chances are good it’s safe water to wade in once the power is turned off. However, water damage that comes from a local sewage treatment center or other unknown sources could contain a myriad of contaminants teeming with bacteria that can cause serious issues. Not all water is created equal, and you never know what might be lurking in your water.

It's not uncommon for someone to find water in the home following a terrible storm only to find living creatures in the water. Those who live in the south should be very aware of living creatures such as venomous snakes such as water moccasins and even alligators nesting in homes. They like water, and many of them have been displaced as a result of hurricanes or tropical storms. A home filled with water is inviting.

Airing the Building Out Works

Perhaps the biggest misconception is in regard to handling this problem without the help of a professional. Water damage requires much more than opening windows and putting fans on the floor. It requires special equipment to properly handle the drying process. If any water is missed, mold becomes a problem, and everything else becomes worse from that point on. It makes the entire situation more expensive, more dangerous, and more stressful whether it's water in the business or the home.

Finding water at home or in the office is never a good sign, especially if it’s not due to a flood or other easily explained issue. It could be a plumbing issue, a roof issue, or even a sewage issue. The safest thing to do is call the professionals immediately after you call your insurance company to report this claim. It's imperative to seek restoration and mitigation from a professional source for the best outcome.
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