4 Steps To Deal with Water Damage

6/27/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage in an office in Las Vegas, NV.

Four Steps to Handle Water Damage

Any commercial property Las Vegas, NV, is susceptible to water damage. From broken pipes to foundation issues or a roof leak, any water issue requires immediate attention. After calling your insurance company to get the claim process started, there are four essential steps to take to minimize the damage.

1. Determine the Extent of Damage
The moment unwanted water is discovered, it is essential to find the source of the problem and the extent of the damage. If the cause is a burst pipe, stopping the water simply means turning off the main water supply. If it is a slow leak in the roof or foundation, the fix will not be as easy and may have likely already caused more damage than is visible. Using a water meter is a good way to determine how far the water has spread. With this information in hand, the specific cleanup needs will be easier to determine.

2. Document Everything
As you complete the initial inspection, it is recommended to take videos and photographs of all the associated water damage. Along with providing a better idea of what repair and restoration services may be required, it also helps the claims process go more smoothly by offering a clear picture of every item that has been damaged, making it easier for both the insured and insurer to create a plan of action.

3. Begin Water Extraction and Drying Processes
The sooner standing water is extracted the better. After sitting for 48 hours, the odds of having to replace more belongings and structural components and deal with mold growth increase dramatically. While a wet-dry vacuum is helpful, it may be worth renting an industrial-grade pump to speed up the process. Once the water is extracted, it is time to dry out the property and affected items. Fans and dehumidifiers are key tools to a faster dry time. During this process, it is important to keep the affected area sealed off to prevent the chances of the damage spreading.

4. Contact a Water Cleanup Specialist
When it comes to water issues, time is of the essence. Luckily, there are certified water mitigation and restoration professionals that are Faster to Any Size Disaster. Not only will a SERVPRO team be on-site to assist within 48 hours, but the team will also have the expertise to begin the essential water extraction process while working with the insurance provider to ease the claims process. With a focus on restoring and not replacing, this dedicated team has an arsenal of cleaning and restoration methods to ensure the claim is maximized for all parties involved. Since it is a one-stop-shop for every step of the process, it means gaining the confidence that the work will be completed as timely as possible with no hidden surprises.
Dealing with water damage is, unfortunately, a common issue and one that will likely arise at some point in time. Taking immediate steps to minimize the damage and working with a professional company that is an expert in the field and well-versed in the insurance industry makes the cleanup easier for everyone.