April 18, 2023

What Should I Do After a Water Damage Event in my Home?

With spring coming and summer sure to follow, rainy northwest Indiana is certain to see its usual share of storms. When flooding occurs, whether from faulty plumbing or the elements, you’ll have to act fast to mitigate the damage that follows. MasterClean’s water damage specialists can help by drying out the affected areas more quickly and looking for unseen damage. However, there are steps you can take even sooner to get started setting your home to rights again.

Find the Source of the Leak

The first step to dealing with a water damage event in your home is to find the source. If it’s a broken pipe, for instance, you’ll have to shut your water off immediately and call a plumber. For this reason, it’s a good idea to know where the main shutoff valve for your home is. Knowing where the shutoff valve is will allow you to access it more quickly in an emergency. 

Understanding the source will also help you determine if the water is safe. A clog in a sewer line, for instance, can cause unclean water to back up into your home. According to State Farm, this problem is largely outside of your control, although keeping the lines in your own home clean might be able to help somewhat. 

Shut off Electricity

While minor leaks may not require this step, a flooded basement can risk causing an electrical shortage. It’s recommended that you take quick action to shut off your electricity. If you aren’t able to safely access the breaker, which could very well be in the affected area, then you’ll want to call your utility company to determine the next step. 

Start the Drying Process

Drying out the affected area after a major water damage event is best done by professionals. The experts at MasterClean have the tools to dry out your basement or other living areas quickly and effectively, meaning that you may be able to spare further damage. They can also guide you on the best next steps, such as inspecting for mold growth.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), mold growth in the home can pose a health hazard to your family. Symptoms may be especially troublesome for those with mold allergies or asthma. The sooner you address a mold problem, the better off you and your loved ones will be. MasterClean’s mold removal professionals know how to spot hidden mold and remove it, taking care of the issue at the source.

Water Damage Services with MasterClean

When flooding and leakage occurs, it’s important to know the first steps you can take to mitigate the damage. Taking steps to stop the flow and begin drying out the affected areas immediately will improve your situation and help reduce the chance that moisture will continue to wreak havoc on your home. Don’t wait to get started–contact MasterClean today.