Water damage, fire damage, and storm damage can happen to anyone at any time. When these disasters occur, it is important to know what to do to minimize the damages and get your life back to normal as quickly as possible. In this guide, we will discuss the process of damage assessment and restoration, including the things you need to know for the process to go smoothly.
1. Minimize the Damage
When disaster strikes, you need to act quickly and do everything in your power to minimize the damage.
Water damage: Do not allow water from a burst pipe or other source to sit around for too long. If possible, shut off the main water source as soon as you can. If that is not an option, use towels or a wet vacuum to remove as much water as possible. While you are doing this, remember to shut off the power and gas to the affected area if necessary.
Fire damage: Make sure you have a working fire extinguisher on hand, and remember basic fire safety rules such as no water on electrical fires. If you can put out the fire, then do so with the appropriate equipment, but never attempt to do this if your safety is in jeopardy in any way.
Storm damage: Make sure that your home is secured properly before a storm hits by putting shutters up or boarding windows and doors if necessary. When possible, make sure that the yard is clear of items that may become projectiles during a storm. You should also put together an evacuation plan and keep it in a safe place if you need to use it.
2. Document the Damage
Once the emergency is over, it is time to document the damage. It would help if you took photographs of everything damaged or destroyed to have proof for insurance purposes. Remember that you will need at least three estimates on any work that needs to be done (work may also require more than one estimate depending on the situation), so take as many photos as you can.
3. Seek Assistance
After completing steps one and two, you should seek assistance from a professional restoration company. The company will oversee the damage assessment process to determine the extent of your damages and start work immediately. They will also make sure that you are not paying for unnecessary repairs or already included in your insurance plan.
Be sure to contact a professional if you do not feel comfortable assessing the extent of the damages yourself.
4. Restoration Begins
The restoration process starts after the damage assessment has been completed. The company will begin to repair the damages as quickly as possible so that you can get back to your daily routine. They will also document all repairs on an invoice.
Once the restoration process is complete, you will be able to see your home or business in its previous condition—or better! Once you have reviewed the invoices, you will pay for the damages assessed by your insurance company. It would help if you got your life back to normal after this harrowing experience.
Contact Experts from Restoration 1
If you need any assistance assessing your damages, please check on restoration1.com for a free estimate. We provide all damage assessment and restoration services, so please get in touch with us today.