If your property has been hit with a flood, here’s how to recovery and repair.
Whether ground water, falling water, or a home water system malfunction flooded your home, there are some best practices that you should employ after the flood. The safety of your home, family, and finances can be at risk after a flood, and these tips will help deliver the best possible outcome.
Avoid Additional Risks
If the flood was bad enough for you to leave your home, be sure you stay safe upon your return. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) suggests that you should check for any visible structural damage before entering the home. This can include warping, loosened or cracked foundation elements, holes, and more. If you suspect damage to water, gas, electric, and sewer lines, contact utility companies before entering the premises.
Take Photos
Before you remove any water or make any repairs, document the damage to report back to your insurer. Take pictures and videos of the damage and store these digital files safely.
Start the Clean Up Process
To start, you’ll want to remove the water, salvage any personal items possible, dry out the space, and disinfect areas where the water once was. Be sure to complete these tasks while wearing proper safety gear to avoid contact with bacteria.
Call Your Insurance Company
You should notify your insurer as soon as possible after a flood. Generally, groundwater flood damage isn’t covered by standard homeowners insurance policies. Work with your insurer to determine the cause of the flood and the extent of your coverage. Many homeowners find out too late that their policy is missing valuable coverage.
Don’t wait until a flood occurs – find out what your homeowners insurance policy covers and whether you need to secure flood insurance coverage. For your reliable insurance policies, contact the team at Gee-Schussler Insurance Agency. We serve residents in Orland Park and surrounding cities in Illinois.
