What To Do After A Water Main Break Floods Your Home
Water main breaks can cause flooding and damage to your home, and it can also lead to other health and safety concerns. Knowing what to do in the hours and days after a water main break will help you to restore your home to its original condition quickly. Here are just a few things you need to know about handling a water main break.
Contact Your Water Company
The water company needs to be made aware of the water main break as soon as possible. Once informed, the crew will come out and investigate the situation to repair the pipes. The crew may have to shut the water supply off to your home in order to make the necessary repairs. If the water will be shut off, or if you have flooding in the home, you may want to make arrangements to stay in a hotel until the work crew has completed the repairs.
Ask About A Boil Order
Not every water main break will result in issues with the water supply, but in some cases, contaminants may find their way into the water supply. Ask your local municipality whether or not there is a boil order in place before you drink tap water. You may want to keep bottled water on hand in your home in case the situation with your water quality changes.
Have The Water Removed
A water removal specialist can help to pump out excess water from your basement or from the first floor of your home. This process may include the use of wet/dry vacuums or submersible water pumps. The company will provide an assessment before beginning any work to let you know exactly what will be required during the cleanup process. If the flooding means you must leave the home, the water removal company can help you with packing essential items you'll need while the repairs are done.
Repair The Damage
The water removal specialist can also assist with repairing the damage left behind after a water main break. Damaged drywall, carpeting and flooring can all be removed for you, which can also help to prevent mold growth. If mold has already begun to grow in your home in the days after the water main break, your water removal specialist will also help with mold remediation.
Having a water main break flood your home can be a stressful and potentially devastating situation. Follow these steps to help get your home back to normal, and don't forget to contact your homeowner's insurance company to see if your policy will cover the cost of repairs.
