Home Clean Up After a Flood – Remediation Guide

A flood can be devastating, leaving your home and belongings damaged and in need of repair. If you are unfortunate enough to experience a flood, it is important to take the necessary steps to clean up your home in a timely manner. Doing so can minimize the damage caused by the flood and help get your life back to normal as quickly as possible. This blog post will provide you with key facts you need to know before cleaning your premises after a disaster. Cleaning up after a flood can be expensive. The cost of repairing or replacing damaged items, as well as the cost of hiring professional cleaners to help with the process, can add up quickly. Unfortunately, you may not have that money at that time. Consequently, it is important to make sure that you have appropriately documented and photographed all damage as required by your flood insurance policybefore starting any cleanup work.

Ensure Safety Before Flood Damage Cleanup

Before starting the cleanup process, it is important to ensure the area is safe from any potential hazards, such as electrical wires or gas leaks. Have an electrician come and inspect for any damaged wiring to avoid the risk of electric shock. If you smell gas or suspect a leak, contact your local authorities to ensure the area is safe before attempting any cleanup work. Do not enter the property or try to clean up if it looks unsafe to enter!

Document the Damage

Before you start to clean up after a flood, you should document the damage to your home. The interior, exterior, and surrounding areas should all be documented. Take pictures and videos of all flooded areas. Note any items damaged or destroyed due to the flood, such as furniture, appliances, electronics, etc. Accurate documentation can help you gather the necessary evidence when filing a claim or requesting assistance from government agencies.

Contact Your Flood Insurance Company for Guidance on Clean Up After a Flood

Documenting the damage goes beyond keeping a record; it’s the initial step in your recovery journey as a homeowner. By doing so, you’re establishing solid proof of your losses due to water damage, which will form the basis of your insurance claim. If you have flood insurance, contact your insurer to start filing a claim as soon as possible. They can provide instructions on how to properly document the damage to your home and begin the claims process. If you need a reliable flood insurance company serving the United States, Neptune Flood is ready to provide you with the necessary support.

Remove Standing Water Off the Floor to Prevent Mold and Mildew

One of the most critical steps in preventing mold and mildew after a flood is to remove all standing water from your home as soon as possible. Standing water creates a perfect environment for mold to grow, which can lead to long-term damage and health hazards. Use a heavy-duty pump or a wet/dry vacuum to remove water from flooded areas and ensure your home is clean and dry. After the bulk of the water is removed, thoroughly dry any remaining damp spots, household items, upholstered furniture, and any other salvageable things, using fans, dehumidifiers, and ventilation to speed up the drying process. The quicker you eliminate moisture, the better your chances of preventing mold and mildew growth.

Involve a Professional Cleaning Company

If necessary, contact a professional cleaning company to help clean up efficiently and avoid any potential structural damage. Professional cleaners can quickly and efficiently remove standing water from your home and help with any necessary repairs. Be sure to look for a reputable, reliable company with experience in dealing with flood damage.

Remove Flooded and Contaminated Items and Appliances

Once you have documented the damage, it is time to remove items affected by the flood. Any items that have been submerged in flood water should be removed immediately so they do not cause further damage or spread contaminants throughout the house. This includes furniture, carpets, insulation, drywall, and other materials that may have been damaged during the flood. Safely discard any food items that have been contaminated by floodwaters as well.

Clean and Disinfect Surfaces

After you have removed the standing water and discarded contaminated items, it is important to clean and sanitize all surfaces of your home to prevent mold growth. Use bleach and water to disinfect non-porous surfaces such as sinks, countertops, and floors. It is important to use a disinfectant to kill any bacteria or viruses contained within the water, as there may have been sewage or other contaminants in the floodwater.

Your Insurance Claim Will Be Processed

Cleaning up your home is a necessary step in the claims process. Once a claims adjuster visits your property, they will assess the damage and work to provide an accurate estimate for the recovery cost. With Neptune Flood insurance, your dedicated adjuster will help answer any questions related to the claims process and advise on how best to move forward. We understand how overwhelming this experience is, and the claims team will work to ensure you receive the best assistance possible. Remember – many other people may be dealing with a claim in your area if there is a major storm. Adjusters work as fast as they can to visit the damaged properties to process your claim.

Why Choose Neptune to Assist with Your Flood

You may wonder why you should choose Neptune when considering flood insurance coverage. Here are five reasons why Neptune Flood may be what you need:

1. Obtain Professional Assistance

No matter what type of flood damage you have encountered, our team is here to provide professional advice and help guide you through the claims process. We understand the complexities of filing an insurance claim and are here to ensure your experience is as stress-free as possible.

2. Receive Comprehensive Coverage

At Neptune Flood, we offer comprehensive coverage for flood damage, including dwelling, contents and other optional coverages. We understand the financial burden associated with disasters like flooding, which is why our policies are designed to provide maximum protection for your home or business.

3. Transparent Claims Assessment

Neptune uses a third-party flood claims expert to handle the claims process. This keeps the process objective and transparent while providing you with top-tier service.

4. Easy Claim Filing

You can file a claim 24/7 through our website or by phone, letting you submit your information any time of day. Our claims team will make sure your adjuster is assigned and scheduled to visit your property to complete the necessary assessment. 

5. Efficient Claim Processing

Our team is dedicated to reviewing your claim as quickly as possible, so you can begin rebuilding after flooding. We handle your claim with the utmost urgency to ensure that you receive compensation for your damages in a timely manner. Keep in mind – if a major storm causes flooding to a large number of properties in your area, there may be a slight delay as the adjusters make their way through their assignments.

Conclusion: Ensuring a Thorough Flood Cleanup

Flooding can be a devastating experience for any individual or business. It is important to take the necessary steps to clean up your home after such an event. Cleaning and sanitizing all surfaces, as well as disposing of any contaminated items, are key components in ensuring that your home is safe and healthy again. Additionally, filing an insurance claim with Neptune can help to provide you with the financial assistance necessary in order to rebuild and recover. Contact Neptune Flood today to learn more about our flood insurance! 

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if my home is deemed unsafe after a flood?

If your home is unsafe to enter, do not attempt to clean it yourself. Contact local authorities or emergency services for guidance, and wait for a professional assessment before entering.

Are there any health risks associated with floodwaters?

Yes, floodwaters can be contaminated with sewage, chemicals, and debris, posing health risks. It’s crucial to wear protective gear while cleaning, and if you come into contact with floodwater, wash your skin thoroughly and seek medical attention if you experience any unusual symptoms.

How long does the cleanup process take after a flood?

The cleanup process can vary widely depending on the extent of the damage. Minor flooding may take a few days, while extensive damage can require weeks or even months to restore fully.