FAQ Summary
What should I do first when I discover water damage?
Prioritize safety by shutting off electricity in affected areas and moving family members out of danger, then call in the experts!
How can I prevent further water damage after initial discovery?
Identify and stop the water source, document damages, and begin controlled water removal with expert assistance from Rochester Restoration.
Will my insurance cover water damage restoration?
Contact your insurance company promptly to understand your coverage and required steps.
Why is an immediate response to water damage important?
Quick response minimizes structural damage and reduces the risk of mold growth.
How can Rochester Restoration help with water damage?
We provide professional water damage restoration and mold removal services, ensuring thorough treatment and repair.
We are Rochester Restoration, and our mission is to be your trusted partner when unexpected water disasters strike your home or business. We understand how overwhelming water damage can be, and we’re here to guide you through the initial steps you should take immediately after water damage occurs. With our expertise in water damage restoration and mold removal, we’re just a call away to help you reclaim your space. In general, our experts are able to assist you with every last detail of the restoration process, so if there are recommendations that we talk about that are unsafe to accomplish or out of your comfort zones, you can rest assured that our professionals will be there to assist you through every step. Let’s dive in and see how you can start the recovery process even before the professionals arrive.
Step 1: Safety First
Your safety and the safety of your family or co-workers should be your top priority. Water and electricity are a bad mix. If it’s safe to do so, turn off the electricity in the affected area. If you can’t do this safely, wait for the professionals. Ensure everyone is out of harm’s way, and avoid any wet areas until you can be sure the power is disconnected. If the source of water is a natural disaster, such as a flood or storm, it’s essential to listen to emergency services and only return to the area when it’s safe.
Step 2: Identify the Source of Water
Once you’re sure that it’s safe to move around, try to identify the source of the water. Knowing where the water is coming from can help you decide the next course of action. Is it a broken pipe, a malfunctioning appliance, or perhaps rainwater seeping through the roof? If possible, stop the water source to prevent further flooding. You might need to shut off your home’s water supply until repairs are made.
Step 3: Document the Damage
Before you start any cleanup efforts, take the time to document the damage. Use your smartphone to take photos and videos showing the extent of the damage. This step is crucial for insurance purposes. Make sure your documentation is as thorough as possible. Capture images of standing water, damaged items, and any structural issues. This evidence will be beneficial when you’re filing a claim with your insurance company.
Step 4: Contact Your Insurance Company
Now that you’ve documented the damage, contact your insurance company as soon as possible. They will guide you on the next steps and advise you on your coverage details. Most insurance policies require timely notification after a loss, so don’t put this off. Your insurer may also recommend or require specific water damage restoration companies like Rochester Restoration to handle the cleanup.
Step 5: Start Water Removal
Minimizing damage is critical, so if there’s a lot of standing water and it’s safe for you to do so, begin removing it. Use buckets, towels, or a wet/dry vacuum cleaner. The quicker you remove the water, the less additional harm it can cause to your home’s structure and belongings. Remember, the longer water sits, the more chance there is for mold and mildew to develop, and that’s something nobody wants to deal with! Water extraction and removal is a part of the professional process as well, so only address what you can safely and comfortably do until the experts arrive on site!
Step 6: Move Your Belongings to a Dry Area
Before the professionals arrive, move your belongings to a dry place. This includes furniture, rugs, electronics, and anything else that’s been affected. Water can seep into structures and materials quickly, causing warping, staining, and irreversible damage. Lifting furniture legs and placing them on blocks can help prevent further damage. If you have valuable or sentimental items, prioritize saving those.
Step 7: Ventilate and Dry the Area
Air circulation is your friend when it comes to drying out a water-damaged area. Open windows and doors if the weather permits, and use fans and dehumidifiers to start drying things out. High humidity often accompanies water damage situations, so this step is crucial. The quicker you reduce moisture levels, the less likely mold and mildew will take hold.
Step 8: Call in the Professionals
While there are steps you can take on your own, dealing with water damage is best left to the experts. At Rochester Restoration, we specialize in water damage restoration and mold removal. We have the right tools and expertise to tackle the problem efficiently and thoroughly. Our team will come in and assess the damage, begin the restoration process, and ensure your home or business is safe and sound once again.
We know that dealing with water damage can be daunting, but remember, you are not alone. Here at Rochester Restoration, our friendly and professional team is ready to assist you, when it is time to restore your property back to its former glory and ensure that your home is dry, free from mold, and most importantly- comfortable and safe for you and your loved ones.
With the right steps, immediate action, and our professional expertise, water damage can be handled prmptly to minimize lasting impact. If you ever find yourself in a soggy situation, remember that Rochester Restoration is just a phone call away, ready to help you weather any storm.
Thank you for trusting us with your water damage restoration and mold removal needs. Stay safe, stay prepared, and let’s keep our homes dry and cozy!
Rochester Restoration is available 24/7/365 to assist you with water damage restoration. Contact us now for expert assistance and immediate relief.
