No home is complete without a water system, but only when it’s controlled and functioning properly. Otherwise, leaks and floods can cause problems that only water damage restoration services can resolve, like rot, mold growth, corrosion, and general decay. If you experience this type of disaster, read on to learn how to handle it.

4 Steps to Take After Your Home is Damaged By Water

1. Be Safe

Leaks and flooding can both cause electrical problems and safety risks. Water behind the walls can reach electrical wiring and outlets, causing circuits to short or even catch fire. Similarly, flooding can reach outlets and appliances that use electricity. In both cases, you'll need to turn off the power immediately to prevent damage or physical harm.

As the water decays the structure of your home, it will create cracks that could lead to partial collapse as well. There are also harmful bacteria in floodwater. Leave your home and find a warm, dry, and safe place to stay until you can address the damage.

2. Get Professional Assistance

If your home insurance policy includes coverage for leaks and floods, contact your provider as soon as possible. Make lists of the affected areas and items, and take pictures from a safe distance to help your provider process your claim.

Schedule an inspector and electrician to assess the situation and determine the extent of water damage restoration services you need. An emergency restoration specialist could also assist with preparing your home for safe cleanup.

3. Clean Up

Once the danger has passed, start cleaning up within 24 to 48 hours after your home was flooded to prevent further damage. Working together with a water damage restoration crew, use a dehumidifier to remove excess moisture from the air and sort through your belongings to decide what can be salvaged or thrown away. Let the crew perform mold remediation to get rid of any existing colonies and prevent others from forming.

4. Schedule Repairs

Water can cause decay or distortion in wood, brick, drywall, carpet, and insulation, in addition to destroying electrical wires and corroding metal. Your home is likely built with all of these materials, so hire a contractor to fix or replace them as necessary. The contractor can also resolve whatever problem led to the leaks or floods.

When you need water damage restoration services, contact HomeTech Restoration LLC in Atlanta, GA. With extensive knowledge and skill in residential restoration services, they’re happy to come over in an emergency to clean up, remove mold, and take your salvageable belongings back to their facilities for total restoration. They’re available for resolving smoke and sewage damage as well. Get started today by calling (770) 710-0185 or messaging them online.