When we hear about home floods these days it is usually the ones that are caused from natural disasters because they can be so devastating on such a large scale. We never hear much about the home floods that can take place even more unexpectedly than Mother Nature floods. At least we can watch the weather and have a general idea if terrible weather is coming that could cause flooding. When a pipe breaks in the home, it can be completely out of the blue.



Home flooding caused by leaking or busted pipes usually will not get more than a foot of water on the floor, unless of course it happens to take place while you are gone for a few days. Many times water no deeper than a few inches can be swept out or cleaned up using a wet/dry vacuum. If you are able to do it this easily then that is great, but sometimes it might not be possible. It might be better if you get a professional water damage business to come out and handle the mess.

Professional water damage crews will know the fastest and easiest way to get the water up. When water is soaking the floors and possibly the walls of your home, speed is of the essence. The longer the water is down, the greater the potential is for wood to warp and for mold to develop. Professionals will have the equipment needed to perform the clean up process as thoroughly as it should be done.

The main thing is to get the water turned off as soon as you can. This can be done outside for the whole house or if there is a valve for the line, such as under a sink or a toilet, you can hopefully use that. If you must turn the water off outside and can not do it yourself, call your water department for assistance. Make sure any electrical items in danger of coming in contact with the water are unplugged. If the water is getting everywhere, shut off the main breaker in your home just to be on the safe side.

While you wait for a water damage crew to arrive, do what you can to get furniture or other items out of the water. Take them to a dry place outside or upstairs if you can. Make sure draperies are off the floor. You might be able to set large furniture pieces up on blocks or other items to temporarily to keep the water off of them. When the water damage people arrive, let them take over and do their job. It is important to make sure you have hired someone who is insured and licensed to work in your home whether it is for water damage clean up or any other type of service.