Water damage is one of the most devastating events that can happen to your Atlanta home, and the longer you wait to address the damage, the worse it can get. Mold can begin to grow, structural damage can worsen, and the cost of repairs can skyrocket. That is why acting fast is critical.
Initial Steps for Responding to Water Damage
If you are ever faced with water damage, here is what you should do immediately to protect your property, your health, and your finances.
1. Ensure Safety First
Before you do anything, prioritize the safety of everyone in the affected area. Water and electricity are a dangerous mix. The first step is to turn off the power in the affected areas of your home, especially if you see standing water. If the water is coming from a clean source like a burst pipe, it is generally safe to enter (once the power is off), but if the source is unknown or contaminated (like floodwater), you should avoid direct contact with the water. If the water damage is extensive and the structural integrity of your home is compromised, consider evacuating until it has been inspected by professionals.
2. Stop the Source of Water
If the water is still flowing, you need to find the source and stop it as soon as possible. In the case of a plumbing issue, such as a burst pipe, turn off the main water supply to your home. If the damage is due to a natural disaster like flooding, you may have to wait for the water to recede. However, if possible, use sandbags or other methods to divert water away from your property.
3. Document the Damage
Once the immediate danger has been addressed, document the water damage thoroughly. Take photographs and videos of all affected areas, including walls, floors, ceilings, furniture, and personal belongings. This step is crucial for insurance purposes, as it will provide evidence of the damage and help with your claim.
4. Call a Water Damage Restoration Company
Water damage restoration companies specialize in removing water, drying out structures, and restoring your home to its pre-damage condition. They have industrial-grade equipment like powerful dehumidifiers, air movers, and moisture meters to ensure the property is thoroughly dried and sanitized. Water damage restoration companies can also help with mold remediation if mold has started to grow, and they can provide a comprehensive assessment of what repairs are needed. Water tends to seep into hidden areas like subfloors, walls, and insulation, so trusting professionals with water damage cleanup ensures that every affected area is addressed and the water damage is completely and thoroughly resolved.
5. Prevent Further Water Damage
After you call in water damage professionals, you can take steps to prevent spreading water damage while you wait for them to arrive. When possible, catch drips or leaks with a bucket. Use towels to begin to mop up the water. Sometimes, it helps to line the perimeter of the flooding with towels to prevent the water from spreading further. Taking this kind of action can help you avoid making a bad situation worse.
Water Damage – Atlanta
Dealing with water damage is a stressful and often overwhelming experience, but taking swift action can make all the difference. By following these steps and working with a professional water damage restoration company like Atlanta Restoration, you can minimize the damage and restore your property to its original condition.