Homeowners and businesses in Palo Alto are well aware of the importance of proper storm damage restoration. Flash floods in the area carry a lot of uncertainty in their waters, and the inherent danger of rushing torrents is an uncomfortable thought at any time of year. Flooding and water damage aren’t exclusive to the coastline, and the SERVPRO professionals deal with this level of storm damage restoration daily.
Storm Damage Restoration: Five Steps to Take After a Flash Flood Event
Even if a home is away from the water’s edge, flash flooding still occurs near damaged dams or heavy rainfall areas. If there is overflow after heavy thunderstorms, there’s a risk of excess water. Here are five steps to protect a flooded home or business from further damages:
#1 Safety First
Step One after a flash flood is to verify the safety of all residents or employees before storm damage restoration begins in earnest. If anyone sustains physical injuries from the flood, the responsible person will need to call emergency services. They should also keep children, pets, and frail adults well away from the water, particularly if there is a strong current.
#2 Don’t Drink The Water
Flood water is not potable. It may contain sewage and bacteria, which means that the storm damage restoration team must discard any consumable items in contact with floodwater. If not, accidental ingestion could have dire consequences, even months later.
If other drinking water is not readily available at the site, or floodwater is the only option, boiling can decrease the concentration of harmful bacteria. However, it is best to contact a medical team immediately in the event of accidental flood water consumption.
#3 Document The Damage
Standard insurance policies typically do not include flash flood protection. However, homeowners with flood coverage should carefully document all flood damage before hiring a water removal company or cleaning service. A thorough approach is always helpful when trying to put together a claim in the months that follow the storm damage restoration.
Proper documentation helps insurance adjusters make a fair settlement that covers all water damage. Professional services like SERVPRO advise capturing as many pictures and videos as possible before water restoration services take over the cleanup.
#4 Beware of Flooded Basements
Floodwater in a basement causes a variety of problems. Connections for the home’s main electricity are typically in the basement, and water contact leads to power outages in the home and potential electric shock risks. If the water reaches the wrong electrical component, fire damage is a real possibility.
A flooded basement also causes significant structural damage long-term. If professional help is unavailable, it is important to be cautious. Do not empty more than a third of the water volume per day—pressure changes of that magnitude may cause collapse. Rather, safeguard the property and leave water cleanup and restoration services to the SERVPRO team.
#5 Hire Professional Help like SERVPRO
A verified company like SERVPRO is the only alternative for fast and safe water and mold removal services.
- Check the online storm damage restoration reviews to see what the community thinks of their services.
- Visit their website to verify certifications and licenses, which are particularly important for reliable mold remediation.
SERVPRO in Redwood City, California, handles many types of cleaning and storm damage restoration services, including water and fire restoration, mold remediation, and residential and commercial property cleanups. For more information, contact SERVPRO today at (650) 800-3448 or visit them at 2225 E. Bayshore Road, Suite 270, Palo Alto, CA 94303.
