Three Things To Do Before The Professional Water Damage Restoration Specialists Arrive on the Scene

9/22/2021 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: The professional team from SERVPRO discusses three important tasks to help home and business owners prepare for the water damage restoration process.

SERVPRO is a nationwide fire and water damage restoration company with plenty to offer residential and commercial property owners in the wake of a disaster. The trusted company provides unmatched damage restoration services and water cleanup for the health and safety of the local community. SERVPRO is also certified with the IICRC and fully trained in mold removal and remediation.

Three Things To Do Before SERVPRO’s Water Damage Restoration Team Arrives

A flood or severe storm wreaks untold damage on a home or business, and both residential and commercial water damage can be severe. Emergency water restoration companies like SERVPRO handle these catastrophes daily, helping victims win back their living and working spaces and clean up the mess. The team works quickly and efficiently, especially with water damage restoration efforts. 

Homeowners and businesses can relax when SERVPRO’s water damage restoration team is on the way, but there are three essential tasks to do first:

#1 Turn Off the Water

Even if the water damage starts with a flood or storm, it is still a good idea to turn off the water source to the property at the main switch. There might be unseen damage or strain on the system, so rather be cautious and give the pipes and outlets time to settle down. If the water originates from a burst pipe, sump pump, well, or another leak, turning off the inlet to the property will also prevent further issues. 

If the flooding does not originate from within the home, turning off the water at the main water valve can still prevent further water damage in the ensuing cleanup operation.

#2 Remove Any Important Belongings

Before attempting to rescue possessions, all homeowners and businesses should carefully evaluate the water level within the building. Has it risen above any electrical outlets? If so, it is not safe for anyone to enter the water or even step into wet areas without professional training and equipment; no object is more important than a life. 

If the building has a safe, dry area and safe access is still possible, move any important or valuable belongings away from the flooded area. It gives the SERVPRO water damage restoration experts more room to work and increases the chances that we can save the item from further damage and mold growth. Fabrics, furniture, and other drenched possessions typically sustain severe damage, but fast removal is sometimes enough to mitigate the deterioration.

#3 Ventilate the Area

One of the most dangerous aftereffects of a flood is unseen mold growth. Even fire restoration companies have to deal with the threat of mold after a fire, and it is imperative that this destructive element does not find the right conditions to thrive. An adequate flow of fresh air is the enemy of mold growth, which likes dark, damp spaces.

Homeowners and businesses can decrease the likelihood of unwanted organic growth by ventilating the area well and keeping windows and doors open. Avoiding the need for mold remediation companies later also means exposing any hidden pockets of moisture in porous or fibrous materials. After flooding, it is better to proactively remove any “soggy” belongings or furnishings when it is safe to do so. 

A standard commercial cleaning service cannot match SERVPRO’s fast, efficient results. When homes and businesses in Austin, TX work with us, it is “Like it never even happened.” Contact the Lakeway / Westlake SERVPRO water damage restoration team today at (512) 261-4790 for water damage restoration and other emergency cleanup services.