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Water Damage Clean Up

Flood damage clean up can be one of the most daunting, intimidating tasks that any homeowner can face.  Even more so than fire damage clean up.  The level of damage left behind by water is astounding.  And if it is a case where the flood waters do not receded, but remain standing, then you have a whole new set of problems on your hands.

Water damage repair should begin as soon as possible in order to avoid long term problems such as mold or structural weakening.  It is important to work quickly, but you should also work safely and smartly.  Before entering a flood damaged home, make sure the structure is sound.  Flood waters can shift a building on its foundation, making it prone to collapse. 

You should also shut off all electricity and gas to the home.  This is easy to overlook because many times, in cases of flood, the power is knocked out.  You still want to turn it off, though, because you do not want to be standing in six inches of water when the power comes surging back on.

Wear protective clothing, such as long sleeves and pants, rubber gloves, waterproof boots, and eyewear. 

To clean up after water damage, the excess water will need to be removed from the home, and the entire damaged area thoroughly dried out.  Keep in mind that not all water damage is readily apparent, so you may have to think outside the box when looking for other areas to treat.

One of the most destructive and harmful byproducts of water damage is mold, which can appear in as little as 48 hours.  Mold clean up and remediation is best left to the professionals.

For the fastest and most efficient response, contact your local IICRC certified water damage restoration professional.