Water Damage; Questions and Answers

6/27/2018 (Permalink)

Water damage can be a traumatic experience for home and business owners. Understanding why it happened, what happens if not handled properly can help overcome the fear and be able to make rational well-informed decisions about the loss.  Here are the most frequently asked questions and answers about water:

What can cause water damage to my home or business?

Water damage can be caused by various situations. Natural disasters such as thunderstorms or hurricanes that cause flooding as well as burst water pipes and appliance malfunctions are some of the most common water damage issues. Roof leaks, foundation leaks, septic tank overflows, poor drainage, etc. are some additional ways water damage can occur. Flash flooding, pipe bursts, and sewage backups are especially dangerous as they can produce several inches of water in less than a day.

Why is water damage dangerous?

Sewage backups and flood water are to be considered dangerous due to the dangerous contaminants like viruses and bacteria as well as other unknown chemicals. If the water isn’t drained and drying steps taken within 24-48 hours, mold growth and structural damage can begin to ensue. Even water leaks that infiltrate your home more slowly such as a leaky pipe can cause damage to the structure and lead to mold growth.

What should I do if I have water damage?

Firstly, contact the professionals of SERVPRO of Lexington / Thomasville as quickly as possible.  By waiting to start the cleanup process secondary damage can occur. The next step is to contact your insurance company and let them know you have had a water loss and have contacted SERVPRO.  Your agent will ask questions about the type of loss as well as areas of the property affected to begin the claims process.

How do water certified technicians typically handle water damage?

The first thing our certified water techs will do after removing any standing water present is ‘set equipment’. They then will begin placing industrial air movers and dehumidifiers to begin the drying process. They may even ‘float the carpet’ which means removed the water-soaked padding and place air movers so the carpet will have blowing under the carpet to help it dry. Our team will then begin to move /remove property to be restored or discarded. Depending of the severity and type of loss drywall, baseboard, carpet and padding may need to be removed. The SERVPRO technicians will also be any mold remediation needed and spray antimicrobials to help prevent mold growth

Will my insurance cover water damage?

Generally speaking, most property insurance provides coverage for sudden or accidental water damage property owners may experience such as a burst pipe.  Damage due to poor maintenance of the property will typically not be covered.  Flooding, which is classified as outside water entering a property will Not be covered unless the property owner has flood insurance.  This information is in generalities and for specific coverage you must contact your carrier for information about your property.

If you suspect you have water damage call the experts of SERVPRO of Lexington / Thomasville at 336-224-2565.