Understanding Flood Damage During a Storm: Steps to Take and How SERVPRO of Flagler County Can Help

10/16/2024 (Permalink)

Storms can bring heavy rainfall and rising waters, leading to devastating floods that damage homes and businesses. Whether from storm surges, flash floods, or prolonged rain, flooding can cause severe structural damage and pose long-term risks to your property. Knowing the right steps to take after a flood is crucial to minimizing damage and ensuring your safety. At SERVPRO of Flagler County, we are here to help you recover from flooding with our expert water damage restoration services. 

Common Damages from Flooding

Floodwaters can wreak havoc on your property in various ways, leading to both immediate and long-term damage:

• Structural Damage: Water can weaken the foundation, walls, and flooring of your home or business. Prolonged exposure can lead to structural instability, requiring costly repairs.
• Mold Growth: Flooding creates the perfect environment for mold to thrive. Within 24 to 48 hours of water exposure, mold can begin to grow, causing further damage to your property.
• Electrical Hazards: Water and electricity are a dangerous combination. Flooding can damage electrical systems, increasing the risk of electrical fires or shocks if not properly addressed.
• Damage to Personal Belongings: Floodwaters can destroy furniture, appliances, electronics, and important personal items. Many of these items may need to be cleaned, dried, or replaced.
• Contamination: Floodwaters often carry contaminants, including sewage, chemicals, and debris, which can pose serious health risks if not properly cleaned and disinfected.

Steps to Take After a Flood

Flooding can be overwhelming, but taking the right steps can help you minimize damage and protect your safety. Here’s what to do—and what to avoid—after a flood:

1. Ensure Safety First

Your safety should always be your top priority after a flood. If water levels are rising or your home is significantly flooded, evacuate immediately and avoid coming into contact with floodwaters. Floodwater can contain hazardous contaminants, so it’s important to wear protective clothing if you need to enter the area.

2. Turn Off Electricity

Before entering any flooded area, make sure to turn off the electricity at the main breaker box. Never walk through standing water if the power is still on, as this can lead to electrical shock. If you’re unsure whether the power is off, wait for a professional to assess the situation.

3. Document the Damage

Once it’s safe to enter your home, document the damage for insurance purposes. Take photos and videos of water levels, damaged belongings, and affected areas of your home. This information will be helpful when filing insurance claims.

4. Remove Excess Water (Only if Safe)

If the flooding is minor and it’s safe to do so, start removing excess water using a wet/dry vacuum or mopping up small areas. However, avoid using electrical appliances like vacuums or fans in standing water, as this can be extremely dangerous. For significant flooding, it’s best to wait for professional assistance.

5. Avoid Walking in Contaminated Water

Floodwaters are often contaminated with sewage, chemicals, and debris, which can pose health risks. Avoid wading through floodwater whenever possible. If you must enter a flooded area, wear protective gear, including gloves, boots, and face masks, to reduce exposure to harmful contaminants.

6. Prevent Mold Growth

Mold can start growing within 48 hours of flooding, so it’s crucial to dry out the affected areas as quickly as possible. Open windows and doors to allow ventilation, and remove any wet or damaged items from the space. Professional water extraction and drying equipment, like that used by SERVPRO, can significantly speed up the drying process.

Why Choose SERVPRO of Flagler County for Flood Damage Restoration?

When dealing with flood damage, you need a team of professionals who can respond quickly and restore your property to its pre-flood condition. Here’s why SERVPRO of Flagler County is the right choice for flood damage restoration:

1. 24/7 Emergency Response

Flooding doesn’t wait for a convenient time to strike, which is why we offer 24/7 emergency services. Our team is available around the clock to respond quickly and start the restoration process immediately, reducing the risk of further damage.

2. Expert Water Extraction and Drying

Our team uses advanced water extraction equipment to remove standing water quickly and efficiently. Once the water is removed, we deploy industrial-grade dehumidifiers and air movers to dry out your property, preventing mold growth and minimizing damage.

3. Mold Remediation

Flooding often leads to mold growth, which can cause damage to your property. If mold is present, we provide professional mold remediation services to remove it safely and prevent future growth.

4. Thorough Cleaning and Sanitization

Floodwaters can carry harmful bacteria, chemicals, and sewage into your home or business. SERVPRO® provides comprehensive cleaning and sanitization services to remove contaminants and ensure your property is safe for you and your family.

5. Full-Service Reconstruction

In addition to water extraction and cleaning, SERVPRO offers full restoration services to repair any damage caused by flooding. From drying out your space to replacing drywall, flooring, and more, we’re here to make your property look like it did before the flood.

Flood Damage? SERVPRO of Flagler County is Here to Help!

If your home or business has been affected by flooding, don’t wait—contact SERVPRO of Flagler County at (386) 447-2202 for fast, professional flood damage restoration services. Our team of experts is ready to help you recover and restore your property “Like it never even happened.”