WATER DAMAGE FAQs
Home Serv - Chicagoland's 24/7 Restoration Experts
Home Serv can help get some of your initial questions answered…
What steps should I take to safely inspect my house after water damage?
Even if the water has gone down, it can be dangerous to you and your family. Keep hazards to a minimum by keeping children and pets away and follow a few safety steps:
- Determine structural stability
- Turn off power suppl
- Cut off gas supply
- Shut off water supply
- Use protective gear
How should I estimate the degree of the damages?
Start by assessing the exterior property. If it’s safe, walk around the entire property to record obvious damage by marking water levels on walls. If the interior is determined sound to enter, start from the top, documenting the damage.
Are there special electrical safety rules to follow?
- Turn off power immediately - disable the main circuit breaker panel.
- Do not use household vacuums to get rid of excess water.
- Do not use electrical appliances while standing on wet floor.
What are some hidden signs of water damage?
Look out for peeling paint and wallpaper, mold/mildew spots, moisture and condensation, a musty smell and moisture in your flooring.
Which areas of my property are important to watch frequently?
While damage can occur anywhere, some areas can be more difficult and should be watched
carefully. Be sure to assess plumbing pipes and connections in your bathroom and kitchen. Also,
check the pipelines in your basement or crawl spaces for standing water or leaking.
What are the dangers of mold after water damage?
Molds grow even after minimal water damage leaving you and your family at risk for many health issues. Symptoms range from headaches, congestion and rashes to more severe issues like asthma, fungus and internal bleeding. What’s more frightening is that doctors misdiagnose symptoms because people may not realize mold is present.
Is the damage covered by insurance?
Review your policy with your insurance agent to determine if you have proper coverage for the damage. If you don’t have insurance, don’t worry. We’ll work with you and can offer competitive pricing to help resolve your water damage needs.
What are the dangers of leaving water damage untreated?
It’s important to call a specialist immediately after water damage. If left untreated for as little as 72 hours, mold/mildew can begin to grow resulting in greater exposure to health issues and more expensive repairs.
What should I do to protect valuables?
If your property can’t be locked or secured, move valuables to a storage facility or keep them with family members or friends. If your home is secure, store all your belongings in a safe and dry area within your home.
