The Complete Guide on What to Do if Your House Floods

The cost of flood damage is around $17 billion each year in the US, an amount that’s only going up. Whether from household malfunctioning or natural disasters, millions of homes are at risk of suffering severe flooding.

And dealing with a house flood isn’t only expensive, but it can be stressful and even dangerous too.

Read on to find out what to do if your house floods so you’re well prepared in case disaster strikes.

Determine the Source

House floods can be caused by a range of issues, and their solutions may differ depending on what type of flood you have.

If your house is flooded from your own water, such as from a burst pipe or water heater leak, shut off the water immediately. If possible, apply a seal to the pipe, crack, or appliance causing the flood.

In the case of a major natural disaster, there’s unfortunately little you can do to stop flooding once it starts. Don’t focus on stopping up windows or blocking doors, and instead move to the next step to keep you and your family safe.

Turn Off Electricity

In the event of a flooded house, fires may break out when water and electricity systems interact. If you can safely reach your home’s electrical breaker, shut off all electricity as soon as possible.

Also make sure to not touch light switches, appliances, and other electronics that may have an electrical charge. You could suffer an electric shock as a result.

Gather Safety Supplies

Floods can carry a range of harmful contaminants. If your home is flooded from a major storm or natural body of water, know that it could contain lead, pesticides, raw manure, sewage matter, and even dead animals.

And even if your home is flooded from a pipe or crack within the property, it may still contain harmful chemicals, sewage, and other waste that could put your family at risk.

It’s essential to have safety supplies on hand to reduce exposure to the flooded water. Supplies include:

• flashlights
• rain boots
• rubber or latex gloves
• masks
• goggles if water is dripping from the ceiling

These supplies will help you navigate your home safely, without coming in contact with harmful substances.

Document Damage

If your home is safe enough to do so, document damage right away using your phone camera. Take photos and videos of the water, damaged walls and floors, ceilings, and valuables that can’t be salvaged due to water damage.

Make sure to thoroughly document the condition of your home to share with your insurance company later.

And if you notice any buckled walls, broken flooring, or other signs of significant structural damage, prioritize evacuating over documenting the damage. Your home could be at risk of collapsing.

Evacuate if Needed

Depending on the extent of the flood, you may be able to remain safely in your home.

However, if you notice significant damage and every room is at least partially under water, safety is the number one priority; evacuate and move to a safer location immediately.

And even if the flooding is only limited to one or two rooms in your home, if the flood is due to a malfunctioning sewage pipe or drain, it’s best to evacuate immediately to avoid breathing in harmful sewer gas.

Submit an Insurance Claim

Once you and your family are safe, collect your photos and videos to file a property insurance claim.

Most insurance companies will require information as soon as possible, so don’t delay calling yours. They’ll give you directions on what to do next, including making an appointment with an adjuster who will inspect your damaged property.

Also be sure to discuss any needed repairs with your insurance company. They may ask you to wait before fixing anything in your home.

After they’ve surveyed the damage, your insurance company will notify you of your coverage and what expenses they can cover. If you run into any disagreements over your property damage claim, contact Shochet insurance claim lawyers for help.

Clean Up

Once you have permission from your insurance company, begin cleaning up your flooded home.

If the flooding is minor and there are no signs of significant damage, you can remain in the home. However, it’s still a good idea to open the windows and increase airflow in case the flood water is contaminated.

If you have a wet vacuum designed to collect water, you can begin removing some water on your own. If not, soak up water in a mop and empty it into a bucket.

Also be sure to remove any possessions in the flooded area, such as rugs or other belongings. Take them to a dry or sunny space where they can later be sanitized. But keep in mind that some items may not be saved, especially if they came in contact with sewage or other dirty water.

To avoid mold growth and other sanitary issues, you’ll likely need to call water removal Denver professional cleaners who are experienced in floods and water removal. Keep any receipts from repairs and cleanups, which should be submitted as part of your property damage claim.

What to Do if Your House Floods

A flooded, water-damaged house is a nightmare for any homeowner. But for millions, that nightmare could become a likely reality.

If you suffer a flood, follow this guide on what to do if your house floods to keep you and your family safe.

For more ways to stay safe and healthy at home, read our latest lifestyle articles!