Water damage restoration can be pricey, as just the restoring and repairing costs associated with that can become quite expensive, but a homeowner can leap from bad to worse by making just one mistake. Not only does this increase the total loss to the property, but it also directly escalates the cost of repairs significantly. Unfortunately, through the overwhelming nature of a water damage event, a lot of people make at least one of these mistakes after water damage; seldom can you act with clear rationality, and the homeowner’s emotions come into play, either in the wrong actions, inaction, or disorganization. We are going to discuss the seven common mistakes after water damage. 

Restoration Reality Check: 7 Water Damage Blunders to Avoid

Water damage can occur very quickly and can wreak a lot of havoc with broken pipes, mechanical failures, and flooding from storms. It is important to act fast to limit your losses, but panicking can just make things worse.

Here are some of the most common mistakes after water damage and what you can do instead: 

1. Waiting Too Long to Act

When it comes to water damage, time is of the essence. Mold can start to develop within 24-48 hours, and structural components can begin to deteriorate even quicker. Waiting “just to see how bad the damage is” can give a small issue time to turn into something that requires major repairs.

What to do instead! If you see water damage, act fast: shut off the water, take photos, and call a restoration professional.

2. Ignoring Electrical Hazards

One of the most hazardous mistakes after water damage in a flooded situation is entering without checking for electrical hazards. Water and electricity do not mix. 

What to consider instead! If water contacts electrical outlets or wiring, stay out until you can safely cut the power or call professionals.

3. Using the Wrong Tools

Regular household fans, mops, and even shop vacs may help with surface water, but they are rarely strong enough to deal with moisture hidden under floors, behind walls, or in the air. 

Take a Different Tool! Use any available drying tools like fans, dehumidifiers, or A/C, but they are only temporary.

4. Skipping Documentation

In the rush to clean up, homeowners often make these mistakes after water damage, neglect to take pictures or video. This can complicate claims with insurance companies and decrease the chance of being completely reimbursed.

Try This Trick! Document everything before moving items. Take photos of the damage, as this evidence is vital for your insurer.

5. Not Contacting Your Insurance Company Right Away

Some homeowners wait to call their insurance provider, thinking “wait and see” will give them more information, so the claim process will be easier. Often, if it does worsen, it complicates the claims process and may even void coverage if the reason for additional damage is due to the delay.

Reboot Your Strategy! Document everything with photos when safe, then contact your insurer. File your claim quickly, and restoration companies can assist you.

6. Moving Wet Furniture Without Protection

Dragging wet furniture across wet carpets or hardwood can inadvertently worsen the damage and leave stains or scratches. Putting the furniture back too early can also trap moisture. 

Steps to consider instead! Use aluminum foil, plastic sheets, or blocks to lift furniture legs off wet floors. Follow professionals’ guidance before moving anything.

7. Skipping a Professional Inspection

Just because everything looks dry doesn’t mean it is. Moisture can hide behind baseboards, in subfloors, and inside drywall. If left untreated, it can lead to mold, mildew, and weakened structures, even if your home looks fine on the surface.

Try this instead!  Hire a professional inspector to detect hidden moisture and follow their remediation recommendations.

To Summarize

To summarize, it is important to act quickly and wisely after water damage strikes to maintain control of the restoration process and reduce losses. Do not hesitate to get professional help, remember to document everything, and beware of any water damage that might be inadvertently hiding behind walls. Doing those would enable you to preserve your property, as well as to get back to ground zero. Remember to always make safety your priority and allow the professionals to deal with the majority of the bigger and long-term problems to avoid mistakes after water damage. 

FAQs 

Why is documentation important after water damage?

Taking photos and videos is crucial for insurance claims and helps ensure proper reimbursement for damages.

Should I contact my insurance company immediately?

Yes, it’s important to report water damage to your insurer as soon as it’s safe to do so to avoid complications with claims.

What is the average cost of water damage restoration?

The cost can vary widely based on the extent of the damage and specific restoration needs.