6 Steps To Follow After Unwanted Water Has Entered Your Home

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

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Following These 6 Steps After Unwanted Water Has Entered Your Home

Water damage to your home in Lafayette, CO, is never a welcome occurrence. Whether from broken pipes, toilet overflow or storm flooding, it’s important to act quickly when your home has unwanted water present. Damage can be minimized by following these six steps to assess and remedy the situation.

1. Identify the Source

Locate the source of the intruding water and stop the flow, if possible. If it’s coming from a burst pipe, plumbing fixture, or appliance, shut off the source. You may be able to do this locally, such as closing the valves under a sink or at the base of a toilet, or you may need to shut off your home’s main water supply. If you can’t identify the source, it is recommended to seek professional help immediately.

2. Shut Off Power

Staying safe is imperative when evaluating water damage. Water and electricity are a dangerous combination. Unplug electronics and turn off power to the home if there is pooling moisture present.

3. Begin Water Cleanup

Get rid of standing water by any means available. If there is a safe power source, a shop vacuum can quickly remove any liquid. A sump pump is useful if there is a large volume of standing water in a basement. Buckets can be utilized for bailing water when electricity is not accessible. Use mops and towels to soak up remaining moisture. Remove saturated items such as area rugs and upholstered furniture.

4. Start Drying

Utilize fans to circulate air. Open windows and doors if weather conditions allow. If large areas are impacted, a dehumidifier can help speed up drying.

5. Dispose of Damaged Property

If they have gotten wet, some items cannot be salvaged. Responsibly get rid of permanently damaged property.

6. Clean and Disinfect

Many sources of water such as toilets, sewers and flooding following severe weather are teeming with harmful bacteria. Carefully clean and disinfect all affected property once it is completely dry.

The key to working with water damage is acting quickly. By removing all water, completely drying, cleaning and disinfecting all items and surfaces involved, you have a better chance of minimizing losses.