The Do’s and Don’ts of Water Restoration

Water damage can be highly destructive to a home or business. Whether from a severe storm, clogged toilet, pipe leak, or another source, it’s crucial to address water damage of any type. The proper response to water restoration makes the difference between a clean, healthy environment and a potentially hazardous situation. It’s essential to understand the following do’s and don’ts in any situation that requires water restoration.

Act Quickly

Time is critical when dealing with water damage. On a damp surface, mold growth can begin in as little as 24 to 48 hours. Mold can cause serious health problems, including headaches, memory loss, skin, and eye irritation, and respiratory symptoms. Home and business owners should begin restoration as quickly as possible. These tasks include:

• Containing the water when possible.
• Removing standing water. 
• Elevating furniture.
• Removing as many items from the affected area as possible.
• Wiping down hard surfaces with a disinfectant once dry.
• Increasing ventilation in the area to help the space dry as quickly as possible. 

Home and business owners should contact a water restoration professional for a thorough cleaning for solutions beyond these DIY tasks.

Look for a Certified Water Restoration Specialist

When selecting a professional for a significant job due to a flood, leak, or other water damage, hiring only well-educated professionals in this industry is crucial. Although water restoration companies do not necessarily have to have certification, this credential is a helpful indicator of experience and knowledge. Homeowners seeking a water restoration specialist should ask about the specialist’s credentials to best evaluate the provider’s reliability.

Don’t Always Use the First Recommended Service Provider

If insurance covers the damage, the insurance company will likely mention some suggested service providers. It’s important to understand that the policyholder is under no obligation to use these providers. The insurance company may have a profitable relationship with them, but it doesn’t mean these companies are the best at the job.

Homeowners should perform independent research to make sure they’re working with a water restoration company with a good reputation and solid service record.

Don’t Handle Dangerous Water Restoration Jobs

Cleaning up after substantial water damage is no small task. This work isn’t something that the average home or business owner should attempt independently. It’s essential to avoid sites that are hazardous to one’s health and safety. Individuals should never perform the following:

• Work in a space with electrical damage.
• Clean up an area with structural damage.
• Clean up sewage.
• Use electrical equipment of any type on a wet floor.

Leave these dangerous tasks to the professionals. Restoration companies have the equipment and expertise to handle such situations safely, while homeowners can sustain life-threatening injuries or illnesses in these situations.

Working with a skilled water damage restoration professional makes the difference when handling a leak or flood. Those skilled in this specialty can provide the fastest and safest resolution possible for the situation. A water restoration specialist can help families and business owners get back to their regular routines as quickly as possible.