How Do You Prioritize Your Needs When Claims Are Backed Up?

Your first priority is ensuring no one is in danger from electrical hazards or structural instability. Turn off the electricity to affected areas if you can do so safely. Stop the water source if possible, like shutting off the main water valve. Then, move valuable items and furniture to a dry area to prevent further loss. Keep children and pets away from the wet areas until you are certain they are safe. Also, check for signs of ceiling sagging or buckling floors that could indicate a serious structural risk.

While waiting for the pros, you can take steps to mitigate damage. Removing water quickly limits how far it spreads and reduces drying time. Be cautious of electrical safety and wear protective gear like gloves. Your actions can help prevent the situation from worsening before the pros begin their work.

• Remove standing water with a wet-dry vacuum or mops.
• Place fans in the area to increase air circulation.
• Pull up waterlogged rugs and carpeting to aid drying.
• Open windows if outdoor humidity is lower than indoors.
• Move furniture away from walls onto blocks to prevent staining.

Make temporary repairs only to prevent additional damage, such as placing a bucket under a leak or covering a broken window. Avoid starting permanent repairs until after the insurance adjuster's inspection. If water damage is extensive, local water damage pros can provide an assessment to inform your conversations with the insurance company while you wait for the claim process. This professional assessment can help clarify the scope of work needed. For example, they can identify hidden moisture in walls or under flooring that you might miss.