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What to do when the basement gets flooded

Basement problem

What should homeowners do when they find their basement suddenly flooded? (Photo Credits)

A flooded basement can be a huge inconvenience for any homeowner. It could be troubling really, and can even pose a safety hazard to anyone with the possible electrocution, slips, falls, and injuries from broken objects as well as animals that may have been submerged in the flood waters. It is crucial that every homeowner is a aware of how to deal with a flooded basement in case it occurs so that further damage can be prevented. 24hr Water Damage Repair San Diego Ca              

The Washington Post for instance urged all homeowners to get to work immediately as soon as they have turned off the power, and are sure that in cases of weather related flooding, the storm or the rain has already stopped.

“But don’t delay. Experts say you should act quickly to mop up water and repair damage caused by clogged drains, faulty sump pumps or backed-up gutters. Mold can start to grow within a couple of days. And you’ll want to retrieve damp possessions and dry them out as soon as possible. For safety reasons, call your power company, an electrician or a professional flood cleanup company if you have a large amount of standing water in your basement. You may have to disconnect the service before walking into the water. Don’t touch anything electrical.”

Read the rest of the article here.

Home exterior effect

Home improvement website TheSpruce.com also shared tips on dealing with a flooded basement. Apart from turning off the house’s main electricity, it mentioned that the homeowner should inspect the outside of his home first before working on the flood.

“A flooded basement is sometimes the byproduct of a damaged home exterior. Check the outside of your home for signs of deterioration before entering your basement; working in a structurally unsound environment can be dangerous. Storms and heavy rain can exploit weak parts of your home and cause flooding. Falling trees and tree limbs can also damage your exterior and create a wet basement. Additionally, storm-related destruction can affect power and gas lines. Call a pro immediately if you notice downed power lines or smell gas near your home.”

Check out the rest of the original post here.

To wade or not to wade?

Popular Mechanics meanwhile shared a comprehensive article on dealing with a flooded basement. One of the areas extensively tackled is dealing with a basement flood that has went beyond the height of the electrical outlets.

“A deeply flooded basement, on the other hand, is deadly. Once water reaches above the height of outlets, you’ve got a more profound risk of electrocution, especially if the service panel is also located in the basement. You can’t go into the basement safely until it’s drained, so call the fire department to get the basement pumped or rent a heavy-duty gas-engine pump (assuming the rental store has any left) and do it yourself. Get the hose into the water by feeding it down from the basement stairs.”

The rest of the guide can be found here.

Dealing with a basement flooding is best done with a water damage repair professional. There are companies that offer a round-the-clock service and a homeowner should just check with their insurance company on how to go about hiring a company immediately.

Signs of water damage in the roof

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How flood damage lowers home market value

Destructive to investment

Flood damage can terribly affect the value of a residential property. (Photo Credits)

It is already a given that a flooded home is less appealing to home buyers given the unfortunate flooding that has inundated some parts of it, the damage that was incurred due to flooding, and the location of the home.

There however is more to the lower market value that it gets after the flooding, as the chances of molds, and a weaker structure becomes imminent to the eyes of a home buyer. Read more here           

Chron.com has shared an article on home values following a flooding event. In their write-up, their focus was the homes badly hit by Hurricane Harvey.

“If the flood damage from Hurricane Harvey were not enough, homes that took in water for the first time will see their valuations drop, perhaps by as much as 60 percent. Exactly how much appraised value a newly flooded home will lose depends on its location and how much damage was done. But four separate academic studies following past flood events show that values typically drop by at least 15 percent. Texas law, by the way, requires a seller to disclose whether a home has ever been flooded.”

Read more here.

Property Value

ScienceDaily has shared a research work that indicated a lower property value for areas within the flood zone. In the study that they published, they mentioned that proximity to an area classified as a flood zone lowers property value.

“The findings indicate that the price of a residential property located within a floodplain is significantly lower than an otherwise similar house located outside the flood zone. On average, location within a floodplain lowers estimated sales value $11, 600, representing a 7.3 percent reduction of the average house sales price.”

Download the published research here.

Temporary drop in prices

Forbes.com meanwhile published an article discussing home values following a flood occurrence. While they mentioned that home values may indeed be negatively affected by a flooding incident, they say that the lower property valuation is just temporary.

“Reports show that home sales happen less frequent and at a lower cost immediately after a storm. Experts have reported that pending home sales drop by about 50% in Florida housing markets. However, as the study at Colorado State University found, this negative impact is short-lived. In Texas, after two months from the flooding left by Hurricane Harvey, 31% of residential neighborhoods saw an increase in median home prices.”

Check out the continuation of the article here.

Flood damage can indeed affect the real estate value of a property whether on a short term or a long term basis.

Preventing Winter Water Damage

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Preventing Winter Water Damage

Melted snow intrusion

Winter water damage can be destructive.

Water intrusion is all the more possible during the winter season. When a homeowner fails to properly maintain his home, and forgets some details and tasks like gutter clearing and roof maintenance, these can all build up and give way to water damage.

Fortunately there are ways to prevent winter water damage. Careful planning, and monitoring of home fixtures can help avoid these destructive occurrences that could end up as an expense.

Lifelanes.com for instance came up with a comprehensive advice for homeowners who want to ensure that water will not make way to its home and cause water damage during the snow season.

“Avoid costly repairs by learning to spot potential problem areas before water damage is done. When cold weather approaches, it’s time to give your home’s exterior a once-over to make sure water won’t find its way indoors. There are ways to spot the problem areas on your home’s exterior before a drip from the ceiling or a flooded basement alerts you. You just need to learn to think like water.”

Check out their pieces of advice here.

Where water may intrude

Weather.com meanwhile shared areas around the home where water can intrude and eventually cause very damaging indoor flooding. In the same article they also mentioned several tips to prevent water damage during the winter season.

“You can help prevent future leaks and water intrusion by regularly inspecting the following elements in your home: Flashing: A thin metal strip typically found around doors, windows, thresholds, chimneys and roofs, flashing is designed to prevent water intrusion in spaces where two different building surfaces meet.”

The continuation can be found here.

Not everything is covered by insurance

The Chicago Tribune meanwhile warned its readers that not all types water damage can be paid for by a homeowner’s insurance policy. In its article, it explained that when the homeowner failed to do its part in maintaining his home to prevent water damage from occurring, the damage may not be covered. Check over here            http://24hr.sandiegowaterdamagepro.com/

“Especially with roofs that are 20 or 30 years old, depending on the policy, it’s possible the insurer might say wear and tear ultimately caused the roof to fail. If the roof is old and an ice dam occurred, Gross said, it’s possible the insurer may only pay a depreciated value, if it does pay.”

Check out the rest of the advice here.

Homeowners should indeed do their part in helping prevent water intrusion inside the home. After all, it is their property and they will still experience inconvenience even if the damage will be shouldered by their insurance provider.

Smoke Damage: What Can Be Saved?

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Smoke Damage: What Can Be Saved?

Fire and Smoke Damage

The problem with smoke damage is that an item maynot appear as damaged but it can be unusable already. (Photo Credits) 

Ask any house fire survivor and he will tell you that there are items that have not been damaged in the home fire, but have been rendered useless by the smoke damage.  Moreover, the whole home will smell of smoke until it has been fully cleaned, and this is not just annoying but can also be dangerous to human health and that of pets.

House Logic has come up with a comprehensive guide on cleaning up smoke damage that may have been caused by fireplace flues, small kitchen fires, and electrical wiring malfunction,among other reasons for smoke damage to permeate in the home. In their write-up, they emphasized that homeowners should clean up ASAP in a very thorough manner so that the smoke damage will not linger in the home and its fixtures. 24hrWater Damage Repair San Diego Ca            

“The longer you let smoke and odors linger, the more they soak into walls, carpets, and furniture.So get to work, but not without gloves, eye protection, a face mask, and a respirator to keep smoke particles off your skin and out of your lungs.”

 Check out the rest of the material here.

https://www.houselogic.com/organize-maintain/diy-repair/smoke-damage-cleanup/

The problem with smoke damage

Resolve By Lowes also tried to explain how smoke damage can affect a whole home. It mentioned the different after effects of smoke in various areas of the home. Foremost they discussed is discoloration.

 “Shortly after afire, the effects of smoke damage are visible on walls, ceilings and surfaces,appearing as stains and discoloration. Within a few days, walls and flooringmay begin to turn yellow; however, this yellowing affect doesn’t show right away. Plastic surfaces/appliances and wood can also become discolored and warped. Several hours after a fire, metal hardware can show signs of rust and corrosion.”

The continuation can be found here.

https://www.resolvebylowes.com/guidance/fire/how-smoke-damages-a-home/115000893728

The National Ag Safety Database – University of Wisconsin Extension meanwhile published an informational flier that teaches those who survived home fires about the food items from their home that can still be salvaged, and the ones that they should toss.

Other items that can be salvaged

“Use extreme caution when trying to save food after a fire. Food and utensils damaged by heat, smoke, chemicals or water may not be safe to use. Food in cans or jars may appear to be okay. But if it has been close to the heat of the fire, it may no longer be edible. Heat from the fire can activate food spoilage bacteria or cause undesirable flavor changes. Toxic fumes can contaminate food items as well. Items stored in permeable packaging should be thrown away.”

The whole text can be downloaded from here.

http://nasdonline.org/1979/d001457/salvaging-food-after-a-fire-what-039-s.html

A home may not have been fully ravaged by fire, but for sure, smoke filled its every corner. It is important to act quickly, and if possible, have a professional smoke damage restoration company remediate the smoke damage in a home.

How to Avoid Mold Inspection and Removal Scams

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Health Risks of Sewer Backups

Safety Issues of Water Damage due to Sewer Backups

Sewer problems can present a lot of health risks. (Photo Credits)

Sewer backups can be a problematic issue that goes beyond the usual flooding, clean up and expense. It can even become a health issue that may affect all household members.

The official website of the state of Massachusetts came up with an explanation on how dangerous sewer back-ups can be on human health. Read more here       

“Pathogens are disease-causing agents, which can be in the form of bacteria, viruses, mold spores, or protozoans, and which are normally present in large numbers in sewage wastes. The nature and extent of potential pathogen risks of sewer backups and floodwaters will depend in large part on the potential contaminants expected to be in the waters.”

The full explanation can be found here.

Dealing with the health risks

Inspectapedia meanwhile laid out measures to undertake during a sewage back up. In the same discussion, it also mentioned the health risks involved once a sewage back up occurs.

“You should assume that any surface or material touched by sewage is contaminated. Watch out: Unless you are wearing appropriate safety gear, do not enter confined spaces that have been contaminated with sewage, as toxic, flammable or asphyxiating or even explosive gases including methane and hydrogen sulfide as well as airborne pathogens may be present. Keep children & pets out of the sewage-spill area.”

Read the rest of their warning here.

More health issues

Home Design Website Hunker.com also came up with a feature on sewage back-ups and what it means to the whole household’s over-all wellness. Apart from gas hazards, their web post emphasized the possible pathogens that live in the sewage water that has inundated the home.

“Raw sewage is an ideal medium for many pathogenic organisms that grow outside the body. Botulism – a powerful toxin – is produced by the bacteria Clostridium botulinum, which can be produced in raw sewage where there is little oxygen. E-coli, salmonella, campylobacter, intestinal amoebas, shigella and even cholera are included in the list of pathogens that can be carried in raw sewage.”

Take a look at the full text of the article here.

Dangerous chemicals can also be present in the sewage water. This can be in the form of cleansers that may have been flushed in the toilet or the drain. It is important that every household member vacate the area immediately and refrain from touching any part of the home that has been touched by the flood water.

How water damage weakens a home

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How water damage weakens a home

Water damage can be very destructive

Water damage is so destructive especially when left untreated. (Photo Credits)

Water damage can be extremely destructive especially when it has been left untreated for a long period of time. It does not only damage a home for the short term, but it can definitely weaken the whole home.

The Washington Post came up with an informative article on how flood water and subsequent water damage destroys a home structure. The article was up-to-point and even had graphics to illustrate the facts that they are discussing in the article. 24hr Water Damage Repair San Diego Ca  

“Water weakens regular drywall, and the paper facing provides food for mold, Reichel said. If drywall is soft, crumbly or moldy, it has to be replaced. Plaster and other materials may dry, but walls and ceilings that were in contact with water still need to be gutted down to the framing so that the insides can be cleaned and dried to prevent mold.”

Check out the rest of the feature article here.

Mold Damage

Mold damage also destroys a home. Forbes.com has published a web post on this saying that old homes with untreated water damage can definitely be problematic in this aspect.

“You might see signs of mold on the walls of an old home, but more often you will smell the musty gasses released by mold hidden in walls, attics and underfloor framing. Much has been written about the dangers of mold to the health of a structure and, more important, its inhabitants. If you smell the noxious, gassy byproduct of the mold anywhere, consider a thorough inspection by a professional. This can potentially be a major issue, as the cost to remove mold and properly install new drainage and waterproofing in a very old structure sometimes is not economically feasible.”

Check out the rest of the write-up here.

Structural Integrity

Third-Party Service Ratings Website Angie’s List says one of the most common sources of water damage at home is a leaking roof. Once a leaking roof goes untreated, the article mentioned that there are several damages that a home can sustain. Structural Integrity issues are one of the destruction that has been discussed in the write-up.

“Spongy and weak water-damaged wood can end in peeling paint, damaged ceilings, and buckled wall coverings. Structural damage is inevitable if there is a serious and long-standing roof leak. That means that a good chunk of deteriorated ceiling could give way and fall, damaging anything underneath. You would surely hate to find your laptop or television under a collapsed ceiling, but it would be even worse if you were under it.”

The whole article can be read here.

A home’s structural integrity is definitely at risk with untreated water damage.

Preventing Water Damage in the Basement

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Leaky Roof and Water Damage

How to deal with water damage on the ceiling

The problem with a leaky roof is that it may immediately cause water damage. (Photo Credits)

A leaky roof can be very problematic. It can be a safety hazard as it can cause slips, it is definitely an expense, and more importantly, it can cause water damage.

Home improvement website The Family Handyman has published a leaky roof 101 type of article in its website that helps homeowners understand and deal with roof leaks. Read more here 

“If you have a leaky roof, you’d better fix it immediately, even if it doesn’t bother you much or you’re getting a new roof next year. Even over a short time, small leaks can lead to big problems, such as mold, rotted framing and sheathing, destroyed insulation and damaged ceilings. The flashing leak that caused an expensive repair bill was obvious from the ceiling stains for over two years. If the homeowner had dealt with it right away, the damage and subsequent repairs would have been minimal.”

Read their write-up here.

Dangers of a leaky roof

Third Party service ratings website Angie’s list came up with a list of the possible dangers of a leaky roof and its consequences.

“In the longer term, one of the most serious consequences of a leaking roof is mold and mildew growth. Mold can spread throughout the home’s structure, to the HVAC system and then to the rest of the house through the vents where it can invade carpets, furniture and even clothing. Black mold is the most common type resulting from chronic water intrusion. Toxic black mold growth is rare, but even non-toxic black mold attacks wood framing, ceiling tiles, and wall and floor coverings. Mold is difficult to get rid of, and it is rather costly.”

Check out the other dangers mentioned in the post here.  

Handling roof leaks

The Seattle Times also published a news feature on dealing with roof problems. In the write-up they mentioned about ways to slow the leak until there is time for repair or replacement. They however emphasized that no matter what, leaks should be dealt with immediately.

“To get the leak inside the home under control, look for the “bulge” in the ceiling or where the most water has pooled. Position a bucket under the bulge, then punch a hole in the middle of it. Giving the water an escape route will minimize leak management to one or two locations but initially will quickly release gallons of trapped water. So, be prepared.”

The rest of the tips to slow the leaks can be found here.

Dealing with roof leaks as quickly as possible should be the response of any homeowner experiencing a leaky roof problem.

Flood Clean up Safety Tips

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What to do during a flash flood

Staying safe during flooding

What are the things to do to keep safe during a flash flood? (Photo Credits)

Flash floods can be very dangerous and destructive. It is important to be aware of the things a person or a whole family should do in the event flash floods happen in their community.

Authorities and flood experts have always advocated that every family should be prepared for disasters or calamities. However, there really are times that people may be caught off-guard. Knowing what to do during such eventualities will greatly help in surviving flash floods. 24hr Water Damage Repair San Diego CA

The American National Red Cross came up with safety tips for individuals and families who may find themselves caught in the middle of flash flooding. For those indoors they recommend the following courses of action:

“Turn off the power and water mains if instructed to do so by local authorities. Boil tap water until water sources have been declared safe. Avoid contact with floodwater. It may be contaminated with sewage or contain dangerous insects or animals. Continue listening to local area radio, NOAA radio or TV stations for the latest information and updates. Don’t use gas or electrical appliances that have been flooded. Dispose of any food that comes into contact with flood water.”

Read the rest of the article here.

Caught in a flash flood outdoors

The website Accuweather also shared advice on what to do when caught during a flash flood outdoors. In their article they specifically mentioned what can be done when caught in a flooding while inside a vehicle.

“While Traveling or in a Car: – Leave early, make sure car has enough fuel and follow recommended routes. – If you come across a flooded area, avoid it and find another way. – Stay updated on the latest flood information. – Watch out for areas that may suddenly rise and flood like highway dips, bridges and low areas. – If your car stalls, immediately abandon it and climb to higher ground.”

Check out the rest of their post here.

More flash flood safety tips

The Denver Post also came up with an article on flash flood safety. In the write-up they included safety tips before, during and after a flash flooding incident.

“If you must prepare to evacuate, you should do the following: Secure your home. If you have time, bring in outdoor furniture. Move essential items to an upper floor. Turn off utilities at the main switches or valves if instructed to do so. Disconnect electrical appliances. Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water. If you have to leave your home, remember these evacuation tips: Do not walk through moving water. Six inches of moving water can make you fall. If you have to walk in water, walk where the water is not moving. Use a stick to check the firmness of the ground in front of you.”

Read the rest of the published post here.

Knowing how to stay safe during flash flooding can help save lives.

Are flooded mattresses worth saving?

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Are flooded mattresses worth saving?

Wet mattresses

Flooded mattresses are soiled, heavy, and at the same time could be possibly reeking of bacteria. (Photo Credits)

Flooded mattresses are yet another casualty of residential flooding incidents. Flood soaked mattresses can be very difficult to deal with given its size and weight, yet replacing it could bore a hole on one’s pocket.

But can flood-soaked mattresses be really saved?

An article published by The Washington Post says it may be best to dispose of flooded mattress. Read more here 

“Most upholstered furniture, mattresses and draperies should be tossed. Floodwater from a storm is a nasty soup of microorganisms from sewage leaks, chemical spills and everyday contaminants. Properly cleaning all but the most valuable pieces would probably cost more than replacing them.”

Check out the rest of their article here.

Rain but not floods

The website SF Gate meanwhile mentioned that while flooded mattresses are best tossed, those that have only been rained on due to roof leaks, or simple spills can still be salvaged. They explained why on one of their posts.

“If the mattress was in a flood, the water likely was contaminated with biohazards and dangerous chemicals or fuel. In that case, even if you could sanitize the inside of the mattress sufficiently, mold from lingering moisture could invade unseen. Mattresses that avoid complete saturation — such as those wet from spills, rainwater leaks, water used to put out a minor fire or similar sources — can be salvaged, as long as you work quickly and dry them thoroughly.”

Take a look at the rest of the write-up here.

Beddings and more

And while mattresses can be saved, an article by the North Dakota State University mentioned that beddings can be saved depending on the quality of floodwater where it had been soaked.

“If you decide to clean the bedding, the first step is to hang it outside to air out and dry completely. Once it is dry, brush it to remove excess dirt. Wear a dust mask while you are brushing the bedding. Then you must clean the bedding. Wash bedding at a commercial laundry, using a large front-loading machine. Don’t overload the washer or dryer. Use the full water level, heavy-duty detergent and water as hot as possible for the material you’re washing.”

Take a look at the step-by-step procedure they published in their article here.

Mattresses are very important in the home and can be expensive. But it may be impossible to salvage it especially when flood soaked.

How to Refurbish Upholstered Flooded Furniture

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How to Refurbish Upholstered Flooded Furniture

Salvaging Water Damaged Furnishings

Can upholstered furniture still be saved after getting submerged in flood waters? (Photo Credits)

Flooded upholstered furniture may seem like ‘game-over’ given that it soaks up flood, can be a breeding ground for molds and bacteria, and could even discolor due to the flood water inundation. Water damage experts say though that it could still be salvaged provided that the flooded furniture is taken out of the flood waters immediately, and treated as soon as possible. Check over here

The North Carolina State University came up with guidelines and tips for homeowners who have experienced flooding. In that set of guidelines they mentioned how property owners should deal with upholstered furniture in case they would want to salvage it. In their guide though, they underscored that it may be best to consult an upholsterer if a piece of furniture is worth refurbishing or not.

“If the water reached the upholstery, the fabric may be stained or watermarked. If the chair or sofa was in water for several hours or more, mud and silt may have penetrated the fabric and padding. The padding will hold the water, causing mildew to grow inside and out. Finished wood surfaces will become cloudy. If water penetrates the finish, the wood will mildew. Joints in the frame may loosen. The furniture also may be contaminated with sewage, pesticides, or industrial chemicals that were in the floodwaters. It may be best to discard the upholstered furniture.”

You may download the guidelines here.

Couch, beds, and accent chairs

The Disaster Handbook of the Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences of the University of Florida happens to be a good guide on what to do to flooded upholstered home furnishing. Although they mentioned in their handbook that it can be hard to salvage, they included in the manual what can be done by home owners who may want to try refurbishing their furniture.

“Upholstered furniture that has been submerged in flood water maybe impossible to salvage if it as been badly soaked. If the piece seems worth the effort, however, you will need to clean and oil the springs, replace the stuffing and clean the frame.”

Take a look at the step-by-step instructions here.

Upholstered Furniture and Water Damage

The Spruce also has a guide on refurbishing upholstered furniture – however it mentioned that it may be more cost efficient to buy a new one compared to salvaging a one that may have been fully inundated ion flood waters.

“Unfortunately, by its very nature, it is easy for upholstered furniture to absorb contaminants from flood waters. Again, before investing a lot of money in it for restoration, get a cost estimate to evaluate if it is worth saving. In most cases, flood-soaked upholstered furniture should be thrown away unless it is an antique or very valuable. If you do decide to keep your upholstered furniture, it is best to have it cleaned only by a professional—a process that can be fairly expensive, since the cleaning may involve stripping the furniture piece down to its frame.”

Take a look at the rest of the article here.

Upholstered furniture may be difficult to save, but it is possible. Professional cleaning and restoration though may be needed.

What to do with water damaged wooden furniture

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Signs of water damage on walls

What to look out for

Does your wall have water damage? (Photo Credits)

Water damage can be very destructive, even on home walls. Fortunately, there are signs that homeowners can watch out for to prevent water damage for destroying even more elements in the home.

SF Gate came up with a write-up guiding homeowners on how to if there’s moisture behind their walls. Moisture is the number one cause for water damage within walls. Check over here

“Look at the wall surface carefully. Check for surface discoloration, such as yellowing material, rounded brown spots or black, often furry-looking discolorations that indicate mold and mildew growths. Pay close attention to the wall texture. Peeling paint is a prime indicator of moisture problems, along with warping or buckling surfaces. Push on the wall slightly to see how it feels. Moisture-damaged drywall will feel soft and spongy, while wood-sheathed walls may feel slightly solid even with a moisture problem. A butter knife, screwdriver or similar tool scraped across the surface or poked into it slightly will often reveal damaged wood.”

The succeeding steps can be found here.

http://homeguides.sfgate.com/check-moisture-inside-walls-35175.html

Paint on the wall

The website Networx.com also shared some tips on how to determine water damage on walls. One of the indicators to watch out for that they mentioned is the paint.

“Paint that is blistering, bubbling, and/or flaking is one of the best clues ever that you’ve got water somewhere you don’t want it. (Ditto for loose and peeling wallpaper.) If you are in the process of shopping for a new home, beware of any house where only certain areas, such as ceilings or single walls, have been freshly painted. Rather than merely redecorating, the seller could well be trying to cover up signs of water damage.”

Read about the other indicators here.

Checking the walls

DoItYourself.com also shared ways on how to check for water damage within walls. In their blog post, they mentioned that water damage should be spotted as soon as possible to avoid structural damage.

“The easiest sign of water damage to spot is water stains on the walls and ceilings. Also check around the window and door frames for stains. Any unusual stains should be taken seriously, as they could be a sign of a leaky pipe or drain inside the wall. Also look for cracks in the drywall. An area of wall that has been exposed to water can also have a swollen appearance and be soft to the touch.”

Read the rest of the article here.

Water damage should indeed be remediated as soon as discovered. This is to avoid even bigger problems and expenses.

Buying a Water Damaged Home

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Buying a Water Damaged Home

Is it a wise decision?

Is it wise to buy a water damaged property? (Photo Credits)

For some families, buying a water damaged home can be the only option to move into a new neighborhood, or into a bigger home. For some, buying a home with water damage can make a good investment granting the repair cost could be recovered, and could even increase the property value. But what do prospective buyers have to know before purchasing a water damaged property?

The website DoItYourself.com shared tips on what to do when buying a water damaged home. One of which is to have a comprehensive inspection conducted prior to finalizing the sale. Read more here

“Make sure you have a comprehensive water damage inspection performed. Professionals who know what to look for regarding water damage will be able to spot hidden dangers that you probably won’t. These could include structural damage and faulty pipes. You can easily find a number of qualified inspectors for foundations and mold. The peace of mind and inspection will afford definitely makes it worth the money.”

Read the continuation here.

Questions to Ask

Real Estate website Marin County meanwhile gave prospective home buyers an advice as to the questions they have to ask before buying a water-damaged property. Ine of the four questions to ask is the extent of the water damage.

“The type of damage that home flooding can cause depends on the location, nature and severity of the flood. A burst pipe in the winter that never led to water in the house is a very different kind of damage than a flooded river or a water heater that dropped hundreds of gallons of water in a basement. If the seller’s insurance covered the incident, there should be a detailed property claim estimate of the damages with recommendations for repairs or replacement. Ask to see this list.”

The continuation can be found here.

Procedure in buying a water-damaged home

SF Gate meanwhile shared the step-by-step procedures to take when buying a water-damaged property. Foremost of the steps that they discussed in their write-up is to schedule a home inspection, and then get in touch with a contractor once a report has been made.

“Contact a contractor who has experience in water-damage repairs. Give the contractor a copy of the home inspection. Ask the contractor about the cost of repairing the damage and cause, if applicable, for a second opinion. Have the contractor evaluate the home if possible. You need permission from the homeowner in writing if the contractor has to open up any wall areas or perform intrusive tests to check for hazards relating to water damage, like mold. Get opinions from more than one contractor to ensure the accuracy of the estimations.”

Check out the rest of the steps here.

Buying a water damaged property should be something that is carefully considered. A wrong move can mean loss of money, and it could even be a threat to people’s health and safety.

Mold Illness Symptoms in Children

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Molds in Public and Industrial Setting

Dangers of Molds in Public Buildings

Molds in a public setting. (Photo Credits)

Molds can be very intrusive. It does not choose which structure to plague. It does not consider foot traffic in a building. As long as there is moisture and dampness, it sure will grow. So regardless if it is an office space, a school building, or a manufacturing plant, when there is moisture or unaddressed water damage molds will surely be present.

The Environment and Health Service (EHS) Today website has shed light on the term “Sick-Building Syndrome,” which is a commonly used term for buildings infested with molds. Along with this came their advice for building managers and business owners on how to prevent such occurrence and avoid liability.

“Due to increased public awareness, almost mounting to hysteria, the number of legal claims is sure to mount. Workers who believe they are being exposed to mold may not want to work, their productivity may decline and they may file worker’s compensation and disability claims. As an employer and/or a building owner, what can you do to try to limit your legal liability? Look for Signs of Mold — With all of this attention, you may think that mold infestation is something new or uncommon. It is not. Mold is present in all buildings in some form and quantity. However, certain species of mold spores, in large enough concentrations, can be toxic. Although the health problems of mold exposure are in debate, there is literature tying some health effects to mold exposure. People with immune-compromised systems may experience permanent health effects.”

Check out the rest of the article here.

Sick Buildings

The National Center for Biotechnology Information, has also published a study on sick buildings, and one of those examined in the study were public school buildings.

“The majority of indoor studies of mold have focused on the home environment or on “sick buildings” (e.g., the work environment). Few have provided detailed assessments of school or classroom exposures; however, the school/classroom environment potentially plays an important role in mold exposure, since children spend a large portion of their day in school. We measured the concentrations of airborne molds during two seasons inside 12 inner city elementary schools in the Northeast United States. The objective of this study was to examine the diversity, concentrations and presence of molds in these schools; to describe the differences between schools and classrooms; and to evaluate seasonal trends and predictors of total mold levels.”

The whole study can be printed from here.

Molds and Public Schools

CNN has published an article on how some public school’s indoor air quality have been affected by molds and other air pollutants. The article focused on the experience of a family whose son’s health has been adversely affected by a mold problem in his school. Check over here            http://24hr.sandiegowaterdamagepro.com/

“Figures are hard to come by, but studies have estimated that a third or more of U.S. schools have mold, dust and other indoor air problems serious enough to provoke respiratory issues like asthma in students and teachers. A national survey of school nurses found that 40% knew children and staff adversely affected by indoor pollutants. Indoor air affects more than health. A growing body of research suggests students also perform better in schools with healthier air.”

The feature article can be found here.

If molds is suspected in a public or commercial structure, it is best for building managers to seek the professional services of licensed mold restoration contractors.

Flood Damage and Food Establishments

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Flood Damage and Food Establishments

The danger of flood damage to commercial food

There are guidelines food establishments follow during flooding to prevent health and sanitary issues. (Photo Credits)

Food establishments stand to sustain a lot of damage during flooding occurrences. For one, clean up and restoration is already a lot of work given the extent of a flood damage. Secondly, it is problematic as well for them to sanitize and ensure food safety once they reopen for business.

The US Food and Drug Administration has come up with guidelines for food and retail establishments that may have incurred water or flood damage.

“Decontamination and sanitization procedures using chemical sanitization, e.g., chlorine bleach at a concentration of 100-200 ppm (1 tablespoon of bleach in 1 gallon of potable water), Quaternary Ammonium at a concentration of 200 ppm, or other approved sanitizers, should be used on equipment and structural surfaces that are salvageable. When you decontaminate, do so in a manner that eliminates any harmful microorganisms, chemical residues, or filth that could pose a food safety risk.”

Read the whole guidelines here.

Guidance on Reopening

The US Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service also came up with further guidelines for food retail establishments. These have all been posted in their official website.

“The owner or operator of any food establishment should notify the health department (provide 24/7 contact information) before opening for business.  A temporary or conditional operating license/permit might be considered if all public utilities, etc. are not yet available. Other applicable provisions of the state Food Code or local ordinance must be followed as usual.”

The complete guideline can be downloaded here.

Local Ordinance

Local ordinances and guidelines should likewise be followed during flooding events to ensure the safety of the general public. The North Dakota Public Health Department for instance has issued guidelines food retail business operators should follow during a flooding occurrence. This was posted in their official website. Read more here  

“Your establishment must immediately close and stop preparing food if you have a flood, fire, no electricity, no hot water, no running water, contaminated water, sewage backup or any circumstances that may endanger the public’s health.  Floodwaters will carry many contaminants that are hazardous to health.”

Check out the rest of the publication here.

It is in the best interest of food retail establishments to hire a professional water damage restoration contractor to help minimize further damage and speed up restoration and sanitation of their business. This way, business disruption will be minimized.

Is water damage caused by snow covered by insurance?

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Is water damage caused by snow covered by insurance?

Home problems during winter

Can insurance cover home issues due to water damage brought about by the winter season? (Photo Credits)

The water damage caused by snow can be quite extensive in some homes. More often than not, the succeeding question is if the damage can be covered by home insurance.

The Insurance Information Institute has enumerated what is covered by standard home insurance, to at least inform policy holders about what they can claim, and what they cannot. 24hr Water Damage Repair San Diego CA

“Standard homeowners insurance covers: (1) Wind-related damage to a house, its roof, its contents and other insured structures on the property. Also, wind-driven snow or freezing rain that gets into the home because the home was damaged by wind. (2) Tree limbs that fall on a house or other insured structure on the property—this includes both the damage the tree inflicts on the house, and the cost of removing the tree, generally up to about $500. (3) Damage from ice and other objects that fall on the home.”

Read the rest of the coverage items here.

What is covered?

The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) also shared comprehensive information for property owners in relation to their home insurance. According o the NAIC, winter water damage as it is one of the usual inquiries to them.

“Damage caused by wind, wind-driven rain, trees or other falling objects, and the collapse of a structure due to weight of ice or snow are all covered under most standard homeowners policies. Frozen pipes as the result of extreme cold might not be covered if the damage is due to negligence, such as failing to maintain an adequate temperature in the house when the ability to do so is there.”

The FAQ Page can be printed from here.

Brewing Concern

The website TheBalance.com encourages policy holders to immediately report water damage problems, including that which is still taking place, or about to occur so that the insurance company can extend assistance.

“Normally if you have damage happening, like water coming into your home, the insurance company can be really useful because as soon as they become alerted they may send an emergency crew out to help you prevent further damage. Take advantage of all the advice and services your insurance company can offer during a claim. You don’t need to go through the situation alone. In many cases, because of the insurer’s experience with claims, and the established relationships insurance companies have with emergency contractors and service providers, going through your insurance company will get you help immediately.”

Read the whole write-up here. 

Winter-related water damage can cost property owners a huge expense. It is important to be informed about what the insurance can and cannot cover during such incidents.

Signs of water damage in the kitchen

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Signs of water damage in the kitchen

The problem with water damage

The issue with water damage. (Photo Credits)

Remediating water damage can be a huge expense. And the bad news is not everything can be covered by insurance, so when it comes to out of pocket expenses, it will be best if it could be nipped in the bud.

To avert a huge water damage in the kitchen, it will be best to know about the telltale signs of water damage.

Service network Networx.com shared that poor caulking is one of the signs of water damage in the kitchen. Read more here  

“The kitchen or bathroom sink might call out to you for help, via a faucet base that is coming loose or caulk that’s deteriorating. Especially when those are combined with a laminate countertop that is detaching from the base or mysterious dampness found in the undersink cabinet or vanity, you have got yourself the recipe for one giant leaky disaster.”

Read their whole article here.

Red Flags

The website DoItYourself.com also came up with a write-up aimed at educating its readers about the signs of water damage inside the home. In the kitchen, they say it could mean pipe corrosion, caulking problem and more.

“Inspect the piping in the kitchen, bathrooms, laundry room, and basement for corrosion around the pipe connections, leaks, or water stains. Inspect the caulking around the bathroom fixtures. Missing or loose caulking could be caused by water seepage. Look for missing grout or signs of mold. Check the water heater for wet spots on the floor and rust on the tank.”

Check out the rest of the article here.

Looking for signs

Probuilder.com meanwhile pointed out that there are other signs like problems in the kitchen surface, as well as water stains. In one of their articles, they discussed several signs of water damage issues in the kitchen and how to deal with it.

“In the kitchen and bathrooms, educate homeowners on interior signs of water damage by looking for any noticeable changes on the floors, walls or under the vanities. Physical signs like floors buckling, paint chipping or water spots are a few examples of detection. Check water lines and shut-off valves at the sinks, tubs and toilets and ensure there are no cracks or any type of corrosion. Installing water detection devices near sinks, dishwashers and toilets will detect low moisture levels or unseen slow leaks, while also helping to prevent extensive damage and potential mold growth.”

Take a look at the whole article here.

Knowing what to watch out for in terms of kitchen damage prevention can save the homeowner money that should have been spent for an extensive water damage repair.

Misconceptions about fire sprinkler systems and water damage

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Misconceptions about fire sprinkler systems and water damage

Does the benefit outweigh the risk?

There are myths and misconceptions about water sprinkler systems causing more harm than good. (Photo Credits)

While a lot of homeowners acknowledge the fact that fire sprinkler systems help a lot in ensuring the safety of a household, the risk of it causing water damage still weighs on in their minds.

But what is the truth behind fire sprinkler systems doing more than harm than good?

The Federal Emergency Management Agency or FEMA was quick to belie the misconceptions about the huge risk of water damage in homes where sprinkler systems are installed. Check over here

“Only   sprinkler heads that   are in an area   of high   heat    are activated. Typically, only one or two heads activate during a fire. Sprinkler heads are activated only by heat, not by smoke… According to the U.S.   Fire   Administration, only   1 in 16 million sprinkler heads activates accidentally.”

Read more sprinkler facts here.

Home Safety

The website New York Engineers also claimed that fire sprinklers help a lot in lowering the damages and the risk of death in a structure where automated fire sprinkler systems have been installed.

“Automatic sprinkler systems are among the most reliable fire protection measures available for building interiors, and that is a key reason why Local Law 26 of 2004 makes them mandatory in many NYC buildings. Property owners are often skeptical about fire sprinkler installation, due to the perception that they cause widespread water damage when they activate. However, this is a misconception propagated by TV series and movies.”

Take a look at the whole article here.

Faster than firefighters

The National Fire Protection Association meantime continues its campaign encouraging households to install automated fire sprinkler systems amid fears it may cause water damage. In their Fire Sprinkler Initiative Blog, they emphasize that the benefits of an automated fire sprinkler system far outweighs the perceived risks of water damage.

“NFPA also assists sprinkler coalitions in convincing the public and their decision makers that sprinklers are needed in homes, where people have the greatest risk of dying from fire. These resources are complemented by NFPA’s Fire Sprinkler Initiative blog that disseminate news underscoring the home fire problem and tactics for successful advocacy and sprinkler code adoption. Home fire sprinklers are a crucial, life-saving technology, since sprinklers can reduce the risk of dying from home fires by 80 percent and can reduce the risk of property loss by 70 percent.”

Read their blog here.

Automated fire sprinkler systems are indeed a must-have in every household.

Electrical Repairs Required for Water Damaged Homes

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