Flood Damage: The Next Steps to Take

Published: October 15, 2024

Dealing with the aftermath of flooding can feel overwhelming. The water has receded, but now you’re faced with damage, mess, and uncertainty. If you’re unsure about where to start, this guide will help you navigate the next steps to take. Remember, recovery is a process, and with a clear plan, you’ll get your home and life back to normal. Here’s how to handle flood damage and move forward with confidence:

1. Prioritize Safety First

Before you begin cleaning up, it’s essential to ensure that your home is safe to enter. Flood damage can compromise structural elements and create hidden hazards. Electrical wiring may be affected, and floodwaters often contain harmful bacteria or chemicals. If you evacuated during the flood, only return when local authorities say it’s safe. Once inside, wear protective clothing, including rubber boots and gloves, to protect yourself from contaminated water and potential mold exposure.

2. Assess and Document the Damage

Once you’re safely inside, take the time to assess the damage. It’s important to document everything before you begin cleaning up. Take photos and videos of the affected areas—both interior and exterior. This documentation will be crucial when filing an insurance claim for flood damage. Be thorough in your assessment. Pay attention to details like watermarks on walls, damage to furniture, and ruined personal belongings. Don’t forget areas like the basement, attic, and garage, as these spaces are often hit hardest.

3. Contact Your Insurance Company

After documenting the damage, the next step is to contact your insurance company. Notify them about the flood damage and provide them with your photos and videos. Your insurance provider will likely send an adjuster to assess the damage in person. Keep a record of all communications with your insurance company, including dates, names, and details discussed. This will help ensure you have everything you need to move forward with your claim and speed up the process.

4. Remove Water and Dry the Area

Standing water in your home can quickly lead to further damage, so it’s important to remove it as soon as possible. You can use a wet-dry vacuum, pumps, or even buckets to get the water out. If the flooding was severe, you may want to hire a professional water removal service to handle it. After the water is gone, start the drying process. Open windows and use fans and dehumidifiers to speed up the process. The quicker you can dry everything out, the better your chances of preventing mold growth and additional flood damage.

5. Get Rid of Damaged Items

Unfortunately, not everything in your home will be salvageable after a flood. Waterlogged furniture, carpets, and even certain appliances will likely need to be disposed of. Mold can develop within 24-48 hours, so it’s important to act quickly. Sort through your belongings and make a list of what can be saved and what needs to be thrown away. Porous materials, such as mattresses, upholstery, and rugs, are particularly susceptible to flood damage and should be discarded if they were soaked.

6. Clean and Disinfect

Floodwaters often carry bacteria, chemicals, and other contaminants, so cleaning and disinfecting your home is a critical part of recovery. Scrub all surfaces that came into contact with water using soap and clean water. Follow up with a disinfectant, such as bleach, to kill any bacteria or mold spores. Be thorough in your cleaning efforts. Pay extra attention to walls, floors, and hard-to-reach areas like behind appliances. Mold can thrive in damp environments, so make sure everything is as dry and clean as possible.

7. Begin Repairs and Restoration

Once the water is removed and your home is clean, it’s time to start the repair process. Depending on the severity of the flood damage, you may need to replace drywall, flooring, and insulation. In more extreme cases, structural repairs may be necessary. This stage of recovery may require professional help, especially if you’re dealing with extensive damage. Contractors can help ensure your home is restored safely and properly. While repairs can be costly, they are essential for making your home livable again.

8. Take Steps to Prevent Future Flood Damage

Now that you’ve handled the immediate flood damage, it’s a good idea to think about how you can protect your home in the future. Consider installing flood barriers and sump pumps or upgrading your drainage systems to reduce the risk of flooding again. You should review your insurance policy to ensure you’re adequately covered in the future. Taking preventive steps now can save you a lot of trouble down the road.

Dealing with flood damage is never easy, but following these steps can help you take control of the situation and begin the recovery process. Stay patient, lean on family and friends for support, and don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance if needed. Handling flood damage may be challenging, but with the right approach, your home can be restored, and life can return to normal. 

We are here to help. Visit UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Jacksonville or call us today at (904) 298-6939.