Between 1996 and 2019, floods hit 99% of U.S. counties. As the climate changes around the world, the storms are getting worse — and most of this nation of 109 million live in their path.
Experiencing damage to personal property by flooding can be devastating, but knowing there are steps to take during post-flood cleanup and restoration can help give you some peace of mind.
After a flood, combating mold growth becomes a prominent issue, as it not only threatens the health of occupants but also amplifies the structural deterioration of your residence.
So how will you restore and clean your home after the Flood?
The Comprehensive Checklist for Flood Recovery will surely help you.
What causes Flood?
Flood damage knows no bounds, emerging from a myriad of sources such as seasonal downpours, sewer line backups, or the catastrophic force of a hurricane—such as the unforgettable impact of Hurricane Ian on the Fort Myers, FL area in October 2022. Regardless of its origin, the aftermath of such devastation presents formidable challenges.
Floods can arise from a myriad of factors, often occurring concurrently. Among these factors, excessive and intense rains are out as a primary cause, particularly in the context of flash floods. When rainfall inundates all stan, low-lying regions, and urban landscapes at a pace faster than the ground can absorb, water levels escalate swiftly, leading to flooding.
Moreover, extreme precipitation in river basins exacerbates the situation, as torrents of water cascade downstream, breaching riverbanks and inundating adjacent areas.
9 Steps You Need To Take First After The Disaster
1. Take care of yourself first
If you are ill or injured, get prompt medical attention. Protect yourself from stress, fatigue, and flood-specific hazards. If you need food, clothing, shelter, or referral to health care and human services call 911.
2. Home first aid
If evacuated, return home only when authorities indicate it is safe to do so. Dangers do not end when floodwaters recede, and some – such as chemical and sewage contamination, electrical shock, and inhalation hazards, may be invisible.
If you’re unsure about whether your home is safe after a disaster, it’s necessary to get it checked by a professional like a building inspector or structural engineer before going back in. Once they confirm it’s safe, be cautious as you enter. It’s best to keep small children and pets away from the damaged area, as it might still pose risks.
3. Organize all important things
Record all losses and expenses by taking photos, saving receipts, and informing your insurance agent. Not everything needs fixing, and some tasks might be too complex or costly to handle alone. A recovery plan can guide you in prioritizing and efficiently using your resources.
4. Home Drying Basics
Floodwaters damage materials, leaving mud, silt, and contaminants that can promote the growth of mold. You need to safely and thoroughly dry your home to reduce these hazards and the damage they cause.
5. Restoring utilities
Your work will be much easier if you have heat, electricity, clean water, and sewage disposal. If storm-damaged, we suggest these services be formally inspected and safely restored only by certified utility workers, as quickly as possible.
6. Clean the mess
Save Important Documents and Keepsakes, Official documents and cherished family items can often be saved if treated carefully. Discard contaminated food, any food that has come into contact with floodwater, even if packaged, should be thrown away.
Clean and disinfect any part of your home or household items that have been flooded. When unsure, it’s better to discard items to avoid the risk of injury or infection.
7. Exploring Financial Aid Options
National, state, and regional volunteer agencies, along with businesses, insurance services, and various levels of government (City, County, State, and Federal) offer disaster programs, loans, and benefit guidance to provide significant support throughout the recovery and claims process.
8. Rebuild and floodproof
Take your time fixing and reconstructing your home while prioritizing safety. Make upgrades that will shield your building from future floods and other probable disasters. Watch out for scams and frauds, and avoid hastily agreeing to settlements or contracts.
Always ask for written estimates and opinions from trustworthy companies that can prove their credentials, training, and insurance. Don’t be afraid to request multiple references and check their previous work.
9. Prepare yourself for the next flood
Secure yourself and get ready for the next flood by obtaining flood insurance, creating a detailed list of your belongings at home, and developing a family plan for how to respond in case of a flood. Make sure your plan considers the specific flood risks in your community and any available protection programs.
Checklist for Cleaning Up After a Flood
1. Remove Residual Mud and Dirt
After pumping out the standing water, gather your gear—boots, gloves, shovel, and trash can. Use the shovel to clear any dirt left behind by the flood, depositing it into the trash can for removal from your home. Ensure not to overload the trash can to avoid strain from heavy lifting.
2. Dispose of Items Damaged Beyond Repair
Sadly, not all possessions survive a flood unscathed. Upholstered furniture, mattresses, box springs, and pillows usually succumb to mold or mildew and should be discarded. Assess wood furniture for structural integrity; if compromised, discard it as well.
3. Set Up A Dry-Out Zone for Salvageable Items
Designate an area, indoors or outdoors, where salvageable items can dry. Clean each piece with an approved furniture cleaner and cloth before placing them in the dry-out zone. Launder contaminated curtains and consider professional cleaning for rugs; damaged items may require disposal.
4. Tear Out Damaged Flooring
Flood-damaged carpet, padding, and warped wood or laminate flooring must be removed promptly to prevent subfloor damage. Use pliers or a pry bar to lift carpet, cutting it into manageable sections. Similarly, saw wood or laminate flooring into small pieces, ensuring to check the subfloor for any issues.
5. Check Walls for Bubbles and Soft Spots
Inspect walls for signs of water damage such as bubbles or soft spots, indicating potential structural issues requiring attention.
Checklist for Post-Flood Restoration
1. Inspect for Water Damage
If your home is flooded, it’s essential to assess the damage. Hiring a professional can ensure safety and accuracy in evaluation.
2. Contact Your Insurance Companies
Reach out to your homeowners or renters insurance for your home and car insurance for vehicle damage. Document the damage thoroughly with photos.
3. Gather Important Documents
Collect essential documents such as mortgage papers, identification, and medical information for insurance purposes and personal safety.
4. Begin Cleanup
Start by removing standing water and cleaning the affected area. This process should be done cautiously and may require professional assistance for severe flooding.
5. Dry the Area
Use dehumidifiers, fans, and natural ventilation to dry out your home efficiently. Speed is integral to preventing mold growth.
6. Sanitize to Prevent Mold
Disinfect affected areas to stop mold and fungi from spreading. Professional assistance may be necessary for thorough cleaning.
7. Clean and Dry Personal Belongings
Pay attention to all items in your home, including textiles, electronics, and sentimental belongings. Some items may require professional restoration.
8. Start Home Repairs
Once your home is fully dry, begin repairing any damage. Replace subfloors, flooring, insulation, and drywall as needed.
Are you in need of quick emergency assistance services?
Knowing the post-flood cleanup and restoration process after a flood enables individuals to prioritize tasks and ensure thorough cleanup and restoration, ultimately leading to a quicker recovery. Seeking assistance from professionals is essential because they possess the expertise, equipment, and resources to handle the cleanup and restoration safely and efficiently.
Their involvement significantly reduces the risk of further damage and ensures that the restoration process is conducted effectively, ultimately restoring the property to its pre-flood condition promptly.
By teaming up with H2O Restoration, you gain access to a comprehensive array of restoration solutions tailored to your needs.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the post-flood cleanup and restoration process is helpful for efficiently restoring and saving items damaged by flooding. Seeking assistance from professionals is needed as they possess the expertise and resources to handle cleanup and restoration safely and effectively, reducing further damage and ensuring a quicker recovery.
By following comprehensive checklists and taking proactive steps, individuals can navigate the challenges of flood recovery, prioritize safety, and minimize long-term impacts on their property and well-being.
FAQs
Why is it important to be aware of and prepared for disaster?
Enhancing preparedness for disasters not only safeguards numerous lives but also accelerates the recovery process and preserves financial resources. Through steadfast support, the IFRC empowers National Societies to consistently enhance their local preparedness and response capabilities, effectively mitigating the adverse effects of disasters on communities and fostering resilience.
Can you keep furniture after a flood?
Yes, the extent to which your furniture can be salvaged post-flood depends on its material and the severity of damage incurred. Generally, durable materials like solid wood have a higher likelihood of restoration compared to less resilient options such as particleboard or upholstered pieces. It’s crucial to prioritize health by refraining from salvaging items contaminated with sewage water during post-flood cleanup and restoration. For irreparably damaged furniture, refer to our furniture disposal guide for suitable disposal methods tailored to your needs.
Who bears responsibility for flood damage?
When it comes to flood damage, different parties might be responsible, even if the flooding comes from one place. For instance, if a sewer pipe causes a flood, the water and sewer company could become involved. In cases like Hurricane Ian, homeowner insurance, federal policies, or uninsured homeowners themselves might take on the responsibility.
What should I do with damaged belongings after a flood?
Damaged belongings should be assessed carefully. Salvageable items can be cleaned and dried, while items beyond repair may need to be discarded. It’s essential to prioritize safety and follow proper disposal guidelines for contaminated items during post-flood cleanup and restoration.
