Posted on: September 28, 2018 Posted by: James McQuiston Comments: 0

Of all the nightmare scenarios that can befall a home, flooding is one of the most damaging. Flood water not only has the power to wreak havoc on the decor and aesthetics of a property, but can compromise the structural foundations and even spread disease. This means that flooding is a problem in the moment, as you lose access to part of your home, but it could also pose a threat in the future.

 

Unfortunately, flooding is a problem that seems to be getting worse, with most experts attributing this increase to the effects of climate change. As a result, many homeowners who have never thought that they live in a flood-prone area may find themselves facing a flood for the first time. If you do find yourself in this difficult situation, the tips below should be beneficial.

 

Before the flood

 

  • If you receive warning that your home may flood due to adverse weather, then prepare to evacuate your family to a safe location.
  • Before you leave, turn the electricity off at the mains. If you’re not sure how to do this, then it’s best to request assistance from an electrician.
  • Use sandbags at likely water entrance points in an effort to at least partially reduce the flow of water.
  • Move all valuable items to a higher floor in your home, or plan to take them with you.

 

When your home is flooded

 

  • Do not wade into the flood water, even if it appears to be safe to do so.
  • It’s inadvisable to attempt to drain the water yourself; instead, contact the likes of Restoration eze for professional assistance in managing the issue.
  • It is highly inadvisable to stay in a home that is flooded, even if you can sleep a floor or more above the flood itself. Wherever possible, check into a hotel until you are told it’s safe to return; in most cases, the cost of the hotel will be covered by your insurance.

 

The aftermath

 

  • Be prepared to discard items that have been damaged by flood water. If you’re not 100% sure an item is safe to use again, then dispose of it immediately: the old refrain of “when in doubt, throw it out” is a good general guide to this process.
  • It’s best to wait until the professionals are completely satisfied the flooded area is dry before planning to renovate it. Even if the area looks and feels fine, it may not be completely dry, so it’s best to wait for professional approval before decorating or using the area again.
  • It may also be beneficial to ask a surveyor to assess your home in the months after the flood. Floods can cause structural damage, so it’s always best to check and see if there are any long-lasting problems you need to rectify in future.

 

In conclusion

 

If your home floods, the disruption and issues you face can be severe. Hopefully, the tips above will allow you to navigate this difficult process in the best possible way, and will enable you to return to your normal home life as quickly as possible.

 

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