5 Things to Do While Waiting for a Water Damage Restoration Company

4/27/2021 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: The experts at SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin offer five tips to help minimize damage and speed up the restoration process while waiting for a water damage restoration company.

Indoor flooding due to weather events or plumbing issues can lead to extensive property damage. It’s crucial to call a water damage restoration company as quickly as possible. That way, the process of evacuating the floodwater and taking necessary measures to eliminate moisture can begin. 

While waiting for the restoration team to arrive, the experts at SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin recommend taking a few steps to minimize damage and aid in the water restoration process. SERVPRO has served the Austin area for over 23 years and is a local leader in water, fire, and storm restoration services.

5 Things to Do While Waiting for a Water Damage Restoration Company

1.      Take Steps to Eliminate the Water Source

If the flood is due to a burst water pipe or faulty faucet, turn off the main water valve. If the water is a result of weather-related flooding, ensure all drainage systems are free of debris and any devices, such as a sump pump, are active. Then set up temporary flood barriers, such as sandbags, inflatable floodwalls, flood skirts, or portable flood gates. Likewise, cover any exterior damage (broken windows, roof holes, etc.) with a tarp, shower curtain, or plastic trash bags.

2.      Turn Off the Power

If the flooding is close to power outlets, cut power to the building at the main. Leaving the power on can lead to injuries and increase the risk of an electrical fire. 

3.      Open the Windows

Floodwater in an enclosed space leads to airborne moisture. Airborne moisture can settle in unseen places and create a breeding ground for mold and other pathogens. Opening windows can help reduce humidity levels. However, skip this step if doing so may allow more water into the space (such as during heavy rainstorms).

4.      Start an Insurance Claim

Many homeowners insurance policies will cover temporary housing during the restoration process if necessary. Beginning the claims process early ensures these options are available as soon as possible. It also offers the chance to verify the type of flooding occurring is covered.

Insurance generally covers sudden, unpreventable flood damage, but preventable events, such as those due to lack of maintenance, typically aren't. Natural flooding requires an insurance rider.

5. Document the Damage

Because the cause of the flood damage is crucial to insurance coverage, early documentation of the damage that clearly shows the cause of the damage is key to a successful claim. A good water damage restoration company will assist with this process, but taking photos, videos, and writing down what happened while waiting for their arrival can also be helpful. 

Get Help from a Professional Water Damage Restoration Company in Austin, Texas

Evacuating floodwater is not enough to repair residential or commercial water damage. Water restoration companies have specialized tools for removing every bit of moisture from a flooded property. These companies also have cleanup equipment for quickly restoring flooded spaces to their pre-damaged condition.

Quick water damage restoration is essential for preventing mold and further damage to flooded property. That’s why SERVPRO provides emergency water cleanup services to homes and businesses all over Leander and Austin, TX.

Besides evacuating floodwater, SERVPRO also offers mold remediation services. Whether your flooding is due to broken plumbing or storm damage, contact SERVPRO for emergency services today at (512) 318-2202 or request help online. You can also follow them on Facebook for more helpful water restoration tips. 

Contact Information:

SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin

6500 River Place Boulevard
Building 7 – Suite 250
Austin, TX 78730

www.SERVPROlaketravisnwaustin.com/