When April Showers Become Spring Storms, Property Damage Can Occur
Spring often brings with it severe storms and rainfall that have the potential to cause significant damage to homes and other structures. This inundation of water can potentially cause a variety of issues within the home. When the storm is over, it is important to know WHAT to do, as well as what NOT to do. Below is a list of tips to help you get your property back in order:
- Take photos of the damage and show them to your insurance agent as soon as possible.
- Ensure your safety when checking for damages. Watch out for fallen power lines and make sure you don’t walk on electrically charged water.
- Inspect plumbing inside and outside the property. Turn off the water supply to your home at the main shut off, if necessary. Call a professional if you detect pipe damage.
- Immediately disconnect appliances that have been exposed to water. Turn off the main power source and call an electrician if you detect damaged electrical wires.
- Check your roof for missing shingles, but don’t try to fix the roof yourself (you would risk injuries and additional damage to your roof). Call a trained contractor to fix your roof.
- If flooding occurs, call a professional restoration company, such as PuroClean, right away. They have the necessary tools, qualified technicians and knowledge to deal with flooding damages.
- Never try to remove large fallen trees yourself. Contact a professional.
- If your automobile has been damaged, cover the broken windows if the car appears salvageable. List damaged valuables in the car and call your insurance agent.
- Always work with reputable local contractors you know you can trust, as some companies try to take advantage of storms and natural disasters. Obtain a written contract detailing all the work to be performed as well as a breakdown of the cost.
For damage from storms and floods, as well as fire, smoke and mold remediation services, call your local PuroClean Office. We can help property owners determine the full extent of the damage and perform full restoration services in compliance with industry standards and best practices.