What To Do When You Suffer Water Damage

According to Jeff Stockton of PuroClean Insurance Services these are some steps you can take to help reduce your loss should you suffer water damage to your property.

* Stop the water: Turn the water off. Call a plumbler.

*Throughout the House: Remove as much excess water as is possible by mopping up and blotting. Open doors and windows in cool weather to speed drying. In hot weather, switch the air conditioning on high if it is safe to do so. Call a professional water removal expert.

*Upholstry: Remove all loose cushions and prop up on a clean sheet for more even drying. Check for possible "color transfer".

*Carpets: Remove area rugs from wet, wall to wall carpets. Pick up any books, magazines,or other items that may be sitting on the carpet.

*Furniture: Place aluminum foil, wood blocks, or plastic under furniture legs to prevent wet carpet from "wicking" moisture up into the furniture. Open , but do not force, drawers and cabinet doors to dry out interiors.

*Ceilings: Punch small holes in sagging ceilings to relieve trapped water. Place a drip pan underneath; move any nearby furniture or items to a safe distance.

*Artwork: Remove paintings and other artwork to a safe and dry place.

*Clothing: Dry all garments as soon as possible. Hang fur and leather goods to dry at room temperature.

Insurance policies can be used to return your property to the same condition prior to suffering a loss and will only pay in the event of a "covered peril". An old roof that wears out and begins to leak is not a peril that is covered by an insurance policy. Misunderstandings arise when property owners attempt to use insurance for maintenance purposes. Before you contact your agent and report a claim you may first want to contact a remeadation specialist. They can help you determine if you have a claim or not as they work with insurance adjusters daily.

If you have any questions you may contact me at robmtchl@msn.com or Jeff Stockton at PuroClean at jstockton@puromail.com