How to deal with flood damage in your home
How to deal with flood damage in your home
If there is any standing water or sewage, don’t enter the area, warns Philip Strunc
Water and sewage leaks are a hassle and annoying, and can also be a health hazard. The proper management of these problems is very important and will help keep your home a healthy home. Here are the five most important steps.
The first thing to do is to safely stop whatever is causing the damage. If there is any standing water or sewage, don’t enter the area as it may be dangerous and there might be the possibility of electrocution.
Second, you should contact your insurance provider (if you will be making a claim) or contact a professional renovation contractor that has experience in the type of work that needs to be done. You can search for a professional RenoMark™ Renovator at www.RenoMark.ca.
Third, once it’s safe, the contractor will remove all the water or sewage and anything that was contaminated. This means that the flooring, first foot of drywall, and even the studs may be removed immediately to help speed up the drying process and prevent water damage & mold from forming. As the extent of the demolition may not be known, the contract may set up as an understanding that the contractor will make the space safe, but the total cost can’t be provided upfront.
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Fourth, the space needs to dry out. This is done by ventilating the space, using high-velocity fans, and using dehumidifiers. Even when the space is dry, it may require additional testing to ensure that there aren’t any sewage remnants. Once the space is dry and safe, you can get ready to make repairs.
Remember, building permits are still mandatory, if work is being done that affects the structure of the house or exterior wall modification.
The last step is to make repairs. This process may not happen immediately because approval is required from your insurance company.
Never let any contractor do any work without a proper contract. You should receive a quote that identifies the work that will be done, any important exclusions of work that they will not do, payment terms and a timeline for the project.
Don’t sign any agreement immediately and you are also encouraged to get a second or third quote to ensure that you are not getting taken advantage of. Also, understand that the lowest price isn’t always the best choice.
These types of situations are stressful and surely you weren’t prepared for it. Just remember to take your time and don’t sign anything without properly reading and understanding it. If you have any questions, a professional contractor will take the time to explain and answer all of your questions.
Philip Strunc is a senior project manager of GTA Restoration, for more information go to Water Damage Toronto Mold Removal Blog.
