What to Do While Waiting for a Chicago Water Damage Restoration Team

The house flooded, water is every where, and you’re not quite sure what to do. This is a common situation many homeowners find themselves in after discovering standing water in their Chicago home. First things first: call a water damage restoration company and make sure they are on their way. After making that call, there are several things you can do while waiting for the team to arrive.

Find the Water Source

After contacting a company, one of the first things you can do to assist the professional team is to look for the source of the water. In some cases, the water may be coming from something as simple as a faucet left on or a leaking appliance. If this is the case, try to stop the flow of water. Shutting off the main water valve or unplugging a malfunctioning appliance can prevent additional flooding. This not only helps minimize damage but also allows the water damage restoration team to get started more efficiently when they arrive.

Document Damage for Insurance

Once you’ve done what you can to stop the water, the next important step is to document the damage for insurance purposes. Using your phone or a camera, take clear photos and videos of all the affected areas in your home. Be thorough: document floors, walls, ceilings, and any items that have been damaged. Make a list of everything that’s been affected, including receipts and purchase dates if possible. Once you’ve gathered enough documentation, take the time to contact your insurance company to get a claim started. Having everything prepared will help speed up the claims process and get you on the path to recovery.

Gather Valuables

One of the most important things to do after contacting a restoration company is to gather your valuables. If your home is flooded or if water has spread across multiple areas, you’ll want to make sure that your most valuable possessions are safe from water damage. Calmly and quickly gather items such as important documents, electronics, family heirlooms, or anything else of personal value. Move these items to a dry and safe location where they won’t be affected by water or be in the way of the water damage restoration team when they arrive at your Chicago residence.

Disconnect Power to Affected Areas

Water and electricity do not mix. If the power is still on and water reaches live electrical circuits, it can create serious safety hazards for you and your home. As you move through your home, identify the areas most affected by water. If it is safe to do so, disconnect any appliances from their power sources and shut off power to those areas of the home. If you’re unsure whether it’s safe, wait for the professionals to arrive before attempting anything involving electricity.

Water Damage Restoration in Chicago, Illinois

A flooded house can cause a great deal of stress for any Chicago homeowner. Worrying about how to fix the damage and how to pay for it can be overwhelming. That’s why at Duraclean, our mission is to make the water restoration process as smooth and stress-free as possible for you and your family. With years of experience and a commitment to quality, we strive to provide the best possible service at a competitive price. If your home has suffered water damage, give Duraclean a call today. Our team is ready to help you get your home and your life back to normal. We promise not to let you down.