Avoid further safety hazards. In the aftermath of a flood, never return home without first checking with local authorities and making sure it is safe. Floodwaters can harbor many dangers, including contaminants, electrical currents and other hazards that can make recovery more difficult in the long term.

Air out the home. If severe weather has cleared out of the area, airing out your home by opening doors and windows is a great place to start. If your home has been closed up for several days following the flood, it is wise to enter in order to open windows and doors and then allow air to circulate for a bit before you begin the cleanup. Though mold can begin growing within the first 24 hours following water damage, having adequate airflow can prevent damage from worsening.

Document the damages. While cleaning up is generally homeowners’ No. 1 priority, it is important to first document the damages the flood has caused to your home. Even if you do not have flood insurance, there may be some damages you can file with your insurance company to help you recover.

Contact your restoration and insurance companies right away. It is always wise to alert your insurance company regarding the damage as soon as possible so you can determine if you are eligible to file a claim for any of the damages. Once that is done, contact your restoration company in order to start the recovery process and prevent the damage from worsening. Untreated water damage can cause serious structural issues, so acting quickly is advised.

If your home has been damaged in a flood, we are here for you. You can contact us ²⁴⁄₇ to receive a quick response and set the restoration process in motion.