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There is a difference between repairing something and repairing it properly. If you come across a situation you don't know how to fix, then you need to call the experts. There are repair professionals who specialize in everything from ovens to roofs. Knowing how to select and hire the right one is half the battle. That's one topic you will find explained here on this website. We've also collected various other articles on repairs and restoration. We don't expect you will be an expert on the topic by the time you finish reading, but we do think you'll be better informed and more able to hire the right expert.

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The Major Dos And Don'ts Of Dealing With Water Damage After A Major Flooding Incident

by Clara Nichols

Coming home to find inches or more of water in your home can be really disheartening. Your only real option is to have it cleaned up, and that usually means hiring a water damage restoration company. Hiring professionals that know how to best protect themselves and preserve your home during this process is wise. You can leave most of the work to them. However, there are some dos and don'ts you should adhere to during this challenging time.

Do: Turn off the power, if possible.

Standing water and electricity do not mix. If you can reach your circuit breaker or power connection without standing in water, turn the power supply off to your home. It if is not safe for you to reach the power supply, contact your electricity provider and ask them to turn it off on their end. This way, you and others won't become electrocuted if you have to walk through the water.

Don't: Touch the water or walk in it.

During a flooding incident, you have to consider all water to be contaminated. It's on the level of sewage water and could be harboring dangerous bacteria. Never enter standing water without wearing rubber, waterproof boots, or something similar. If you touch any water or any object that is wet, wash your hands immediately. Avoid allowing the water to come into contact with wounds, too. If it does, clean the wound immediately and apply an antibiotic ointment.

Do: Contact your homeowners insurance company.

Whether or not the water damage restoration fees will be covered by your homeowners insurance will depend on your policy. Some policies do exclude flooding from their coverage. Of course, if you pay for a separate flood rider, which is common in areas where there is a real risk of flooding, then you should be covered. Talk to your insurer early so you get an idea of exactly what they will cover and how to seek those funds.

Don't: Save items your restoration team throws away.

If your restoration team says an item cannot or should not be saved, listen to them. Sometimes homeowners raid the trash once the restoration team has left in an attempt to keep items that were thrown away. Don't do this. Those items are contaminated, and keeping them could put you at risk for illness or infection.

After a big flood, follow the tips above for a safe and successful restoration. For more information on water damage restoration, contact a professional near you.

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