Water damage can occur for all sorts of reasons, from flooding to plumbing problems. While timely water damage repairs are crucial to restore your home to its former state, there are other important steps to take while you wait for the professionals to arrive. Here's how you can develop an effective and efficient plan of attack. 

What Should You Do if Your Home Is Damaged by Water?

1. Turn Off Utilities

If the problem stems from a burst pipe, locate the main water valve in your home and turn it off. If you're not sure where the main valve is, inspect the front of your house. It's often located near the water meter outside the home and typically appears as a red or green knob. If you're concerned about the risk of an electric shock, shut down power to your home from the breaker box. 

2. Contact Your Insurer

Some types of water damage are covered by home insurance, such as problems caused by storms or burst pipes. In these situations, you must contact your insurance company soon after the incident occurs to get the claims process started. 

Most insurers send out an adjuster to assess the damage and determine the proper value to cover it. However, you can also take pictures of any issues in your home and send them to the insurance agency to expedite the process. 

3. Find Safer Accommodations 

Extensive damage can make it difficult to remain in your home until water extraction has occurred. Additionally, a backed-up drain can pose a health risk to your family if sewage makes its way into the home. 

In either case, consider relocating your family until the situation is addressed. If you're concerned about relocation costs, check your insurance policy to see if it covers temporary lodging for covered perils. 

To restore your home as soon as possible, schedule water damage repairs with Blue Bear Restoration. Serving Rochester, NY, and the surrounding areas, this business helps homeowners during times of need. This restoration company offers comprehensive services to bring your home back to its former state. Visit the website to learn more about their water damage repair services. Call (585) 206-1431 to request a free estimate today.