Flooding

Internal or external issues, such as broken plumbing or severe weather, can be the cause of a flooded home. Extreme weather can also be a contributing factor. No matter where the water is coming from, there are measures that need to be taken to ensure the safety of your loved ones, the preservation of your property, the avoidance of potential health risks, and the recovery of as much of the money spent on repairs as possible from your insurance company.

What kind of damage does flooding inflict on a house?

Floods have the potential to cause structural damage, such as floors and roofs that become loose or buckle, or foundation cracks. After a flood, you might also find that the electrical wires in your home are damaged, possibly even broken or frayed.

What should you do in the event that there is a flood in your home?

Maintain a low relative humidity in the home through proper ventilation and dehumidification. Rinse all of the floors, and then clean them as quickly as you can. It is important to replace any flooring that has been severely damaged by flood water or sewage. Using a solution of water and unscented detergent, clean any and all cavities found within the interior walls and floors.

How exactly do floods impact buildings?

The water pressure from flooding will push against the sides of your house, which will weaken the structure of your home and may even cause it to become detached from its foundation. In addition, flooding is capable of penetrating deep into the earth, which causes severe damage.

When you first walk back into your house?

If you can, try to get back to your house during the daytime so that you won't need to turn any lights on. Instead of candles and torches, you should make use of battery-powered flashlights and lanterns.

What steps should I take if flooding causes damage to my home?

If a flood caused you to be forced to evacuate your home, you should not go back until the local authorities tell you that it is safe to do so. It is important to keep in mind that when you return home, you should first assess the state of the property from the outside before going inside. If there are downed power lines in the area, you should avoid standing in flood water or puddles at all costs because the water can become electrically charged.