What is Water Damage? Plus, Prevention Tips, Risks, and How to File a Property Insurance Claim

4/24/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Dallas Love has decades of water damage restoration experience. Call us any time for emergency water removal help.

What is Water Damage?

Water damage refers to any damage caused by water intrusion into a building. The most common causes of water damage include

1. Leaking or Burst Pipes

2. Heavy Rainfall or Flooding

3. Faulty Appliances and Plumbing Fixtures

4. Roof Damage or Leaks

5. Poor Drainage Systems and Blockages

6. Sewer Backup

7. Foundation Cracks and Leaks

8. Humidity & Condensation

Water damage can be devastating, resulting in the loss of valuable belongings and the need for extensive repairs. Water damage restoration is a necessary process that homeowners and property owners must undertake when their property is damaged due to water intrusion. According to the Insurance Information Institute, water damage is the second most common home insurance claim in the United States, accounting for 20% of all claims filed. A water damage insurance claim costs around $3,300 (Forbes), which can rise significantly if the damage is severe or the property is located in a high-risk area.

What is a Water Damage Restoration Company?

If you have experienced water damage that needs more than a simple mop and bucket, it's time to call a water damage restoration company.

A water damage restoration company is a professional service provider specializing in repairing and restoring properties damaged by water. These companies employ trained and experienced technicians who have expertise in identifying, assessing, and mitigating water damage. Their primary goal is to restore the property to its pre-damage condition quickly and efficiently, using advanced restoration techniques and equipment.

Water damage restoration companies offer various services, including water extraction, drying and dehumidification, mold remediation, structural drying and sanitation, and damage repair. Their services are essential to prevent further damage and reduce the overall restoration cost, especially in the first 24-48 hours after water damage occurs.

Water damage restoration companies also work closely with insurance providers to help clients file insurance claims and navigate the claims process. They can provide documentation of the damages, work with adjusters, and provide estimates for repairs and restoration.

Choose a reputable and experienced water damage restoration company, as poorly executed repairs can lead to mold growth, structural damage, and health risks. Look for companies licensed, insured, and certified by industry organizations like the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC).

The most trusted commercial water damage restoration company is SERVPRO.

SERVPRO has been a renowned water damage restoration company in the damage restoration industry for over 50 years. They offer professional services specializing in water damage restoration, fire damage restoration, mold remediation, and other related services. With over 1,800 franchises across the United States and Canada, SERVPRO has the workforce, expertise, and equipment to handle any size of disaster and help homeowners and businesses return to normalcy as quickly as possible. SERVPRO technicians participate in rigorous training programs from SERVPRO University and hold certifications from reputable institutions like the IICRC.

SERVPRO's services cover all stages of water damage restoration, from initial assessment and mitigation to final repair and rebuilding. They respond promptly to emergency calls and are available 24/7 to address any water damage immediately, preventing further damage and reducing the overall restoration cost. They also work with all major insurance providers, helping clients navigate the claims process and maximizing their insurance coverage.

Preventing Water Damage

Preventing water damage is critical. Some preventive measures include

1. Have your home inspected for weak spots in the foundation, around windows and doors, or other places where water may enter.

If you're wondering how to tell if your home has a weak foundation, there are some telltale signs that you should watch out for. One common symptom is cracking in your walls or floors. If you notice any cracks in your home's foundation, it could be a sign that your foundation is shifting or settling, which can cause water to seep into your home.

Other signs of a weak foundation include sloping or uneven floors, doors and windows that won't open or close properly, gaps between your walls and ceiling or between your walls and floor, and a tilting chimney.

When identifying a leak in your window or door, there are several signs to watch out for. One of the most common indications is moisture or water collecting around the window or door frame. This moisture can take the form of condensation, which appears as droplets of water inside the window or door or as actual water pooling on the sill or threshold.

Another sign of window or door leakage is the presence of drafts, which can create a noticeable temperature difference near the window or door. If you feel a draft when you're standing near a closed window or door, there is likely a gap in the frame allowing air to pass through.

In addition to these visual and tactile cues, you may notice increased energy bills if your windows or doors leak. Leaks can lead to a loss of heat or cool air, forcing your HVAC system to work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature inside your home.

To prevent window and door leaks, it's important to ensure that your frames are well-sealed and properly insulated. This can be achieved through various measures, such as weatherstripping, caulking, or the installation of insulated glazing. It's also a good idea to inspect your windows and doors regularly for signs of wear and tear and to address any issues promptly to avoid further damage and costly repairs in the future.

2. Make sure gutters are clear of debris and connected to a downspout that leads away from the house.

Downspouts should lead away from the house to prevent water damage. When it rains, gutters collect water from the roof and direct it into the downspout. If the downspout is not connected to a proper drainage system or leads directly toward the house's foundation, the water can seep into the soil and cause damage to the foundation. Furthermore, the excess water can also lead to soil erosion, which can compromise the stability of the foundation and lead to costly repairs.

Having downspouts that lead away from the house is an effective way to prevent water damage and protect one of the most important investments a person can make. Redirecting the water away from the foundation prevents soil erosion and helps maintain the structure's integrity over time. This is especially important in areas where heavy rainfall is typical, as excess water can cause severe damage to a home's foundation, leading to costly repairs and decreased property value.

Homeowners can prevent water damage and protect their investment by ensuring that downspouts are connected to a proper drainage system and lead away from the house. Even a tiny amount of water that seeps into the foundation can cause damage over time, so preventing water from accumulating in the first place is the best way to avoid costly repairs. Investing in proper drainage systems and maintenance can save homeowners time, money, and headaches in the long run.

3. Install an automatic shutoff valve on washing machine hoses or dishwashers.

An automatic shutoff valve on a washing machine is designed to detect water leaks and automatically shut off the water supply to prevent significant damage. This type of valve is typically installed where the washing machine's water hoses are connected, as these are known to be vulnerable points that may develop leaks or lead to broken hoses due to normal wear and tear. In addition, this type of device can also be used in dishwashers for similar purposes. Installing an automatic shutoff valve ensures that any unexpected water leakage will be detected immediately and prevented from causing severe damage to the home.

4. Connect sump pumps and drains to a backflow preventer.

A sump pump is a device that helps to prevent water damage in basements and other low-lying areas of a home. The pump is typically installed in a specially designed pit, well known as a sump basin, where water is directed to flow naturally or with the help of a drain or other collection system. When the water level in the basin reaches a certain point, the sump pump is activated, pumping water out of the bay and away from home through a designated drainage system.

The primary purpose of a sump pump is to prevent flooding and water damage in the basement or crawlspace of a home. Excess water from rainfall, melting snow, or other sources can accumulate without a sump pump, leading to water damage, mold growth, and other related problems. Sump pumps are significant in areas with high water tables or frequent flooding, where water buildup can be a serious concern.

There are two main types of sump pumps: submersible and pedestal. Submersible pumps are designed to be placed directly in the sump basin and operate underwater, while pedestal pumps are mounted above the basin and work with a hose or pipe to remove water. Both types of sump pumps effectively remove excess water and prevent water damage. Still, submersible pumps are generally more powerful and efficient, making them popular for homeowners.

Sump pumps can be powered by electricity or battery backup, with battery backup systems providing additional protection in the event of power outages or electrical failures. Some sump pumps also come equipped with alarms or sensors that can alert homeowners to potential flooding or problems with the pump, giving them ample time to take action and prevent serious damage.

Overall, a sump pump is an essential tool for protecting the foundation and structure of a home from water damage. By removing excess water from the basement or crawlspace, sump pumps help prevent mold growth, structural damage, and other problems that can be costly to repair. Homeowners in areas with high water tables or frequent flooding should consider investing in a sump pump to ensure their homes' long-term health and stability.

5. Check appliances such as toilets, sinks, showers, and tubs regularly for leaks.

If you suspect your toilet, sink, shower, or tub may leak, there are a few signs to look out for. Firstly, if you notice water pooling around the base or on the floor nearby, this clearly indicates a leak. Another warning to watch out for is if your water bill has increased without explanation. This is often a sign of a leak somewhere in your home, and the tub could be a culprit.

There are a few reasons why your tub may be leaking. One common issue is with the caulking around the base of the tub. Over time, caulking can dry out and crack, allowing water to seep through and create a leak. Another possibility is with the overflow gasket, which is located in the tub's overflow drain. If this gasket is loose or has deteriorated, it can also cause a leak.

It's essential to address any leaks as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your home. If unchecked, water can seep into the flooring and walls, leading to mold growth and structural damage. Having a professional plumber check for leaks and repair them promptly is a good idea. In the meantime, wipe up any water around your tub after use and watch for any signs of moisture or leaks. By being proactive, you can prevent costly water damage and ensure the longevity of your home.

6. Inspect caulking around windows, bathtubs, and showers annually.

If you're wondering when to replace the caulking around your windows, bathtubs, or shower, look out for a few signs. Firstly, check for any cracks or gaps in the caulking. Over time, caulking can become brittle and break down, allowing air and moisture to seep in. This reduces your home's energy efficiency and can lead to water damage, mold growth, and other related problems.

Another indication that it's time to recaulk your windows is if you notice drafts or cold spots around them. If your windows aren't properly sealed, they can allow heat to escape in the winter and enter in the summer, making it harder to regulate the temperature in your home.

In addition, if you notice a buildup of condensation on the inside of your windows, this could be a sign that the caulking has deteriorated and needs to be replaced. Condensation occurs when warm air inside your home comes into contact with cold surfaces, and if your windows aren't properly sealed, they can contribute to excess moisture buildup.

It's a good idea to inspect the caulking around your windows annually and address any issues promptly. To replace the caulking, you'll need to remove the old caulking and clean the surfaces thoroughly before applying a new seal of caulk. This can be a DIY job or done by a professional, depending on your level of expertise.

By ensuring that your windows are properly sealed, you can improve your home's energy efficiency, prevent water damage, and maintain a comfortable living environment. So, if you notice any signs of deteriorating caulking, take your time addressing the problem.

7. Ensure yard drainage is directed well away from your property.

One key aspect of maintaining a dry and secure home is ensuring proper drainage around your property. If your yard's drainage is not directed away from your home, it can lead to basement flooding, soil erosion, and water damage to your foundation. To prevent these issues, managing your yard's drainage effectively is essential.

The first step in managing yard drainage is to assess the area surrounding your home. Identify the low spots on your property where water tends to collect, and note the direction of natural water flow. Next, evaluate the grading of your yard, ensuring that it slopes gently away from your home's foundation. This means that the ground will slope at least six inches over ten feet away from your home, allowing water to flow out and away.

If your yard slopes towards your home, you can help redirect water flow by building a berm or swale. A berm is a raised strip of land, while a swale is a depression in the ground. Both allow water to flow naturally away from your home's foundation. A swale will help intercept any water running down a slope, while a berm will divert water flowing toward your home.

Another option to consider is installing a French drain. A French drain is a gravel-filled trench that directs water to an outlet point away from your home's foundation. It can be an effective solution for managing yard drainage, especially in areas with heavy rainfall.

In addition to these measures, keeping your gutters and downspouts clean and in good repair is essential. Ensure they are debris-free and adequately attached to your home's exterior. This will help water flow away from your home's foundation and prevent it from pooling around your property.

By proactively managing your yard's drainage, you can help prevent water damage and maintain the integrity of your home's foundation. If you have any concerns about your yard's drainage or need help implementing these measures, consider consulting a professional landscaper or contractor to assess your situation and recommend appropriate solutions.

8. Keep gutters clean to prevent runoff from entering the house.

Keeping your gutters clean cannot be overstated when preventing water damage to your home. Gutters are vital in diverting rainwater from your home's foundation and preventing it from seeping into the basement. However, when gutters are clogged with debris, such as leaves, twigs, and dirt, they can no longer function effectively, leading to water damage.

When gutter systems become clogged, they can overflow and deposit water around your home's foundation. Over time, this can cause soil erosion and create the perfect environment for mold growth. As water seeps into your home's basement, it can cause structural damage and create a breeding ground for mold and mildew, which can cause health problems for you and your family.

Regular gutter cleanings can help prevent all these issues. Experts suggest that gutters should be cleaned at least twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall. However, if you have mature trees around your home, your gutters may need more frequent cleanings to prevent excess buildup.

While gutter cleaning can be daunting, it's essential to keep up with this maintenance to prevent water damage to your home. If you're uncomfortable tackling this job, consider hiring a professional gutter cleaning service. They have the equipment and expertise needed to clean gutters thoroughly and safely.

9. Cover outdoor air conditioning units during rainy weather.

During rainy weather, it's essential to cover outdoor air conditioning units to protect them from water damage. Rainwater can seep into the unit's internal components, causing electrical damage and corrosion. This not only impairs the unit's performance but also shortens its lifespan.

Covering your air conditioning unit during rainy weather can also prevent flooding. Heavy rain combined with clogged drains or inadequate drainage systems can cause flooding that can damage your outdoor AC unit. Covering the unit can prevent water from entering and reduce the risk of water damage.

Moreover, covering your outdoor air conditioning units can prevent debris from entering the unit, particularly during heavy winds. Leaves, twigs, and other debris can accumulate around the unit, reducing its airflow and causing damage to the fan motor. A cover over the unit prevents this debris from entering and causing damage.

Outdoor air conditioning unit covers are available in various materials, from mesh to heavy-duty canvas. Choosing a cover that allows proper ventilation and airflow is essential, preventing moisture buildup that can contribute to mold growth. Choose a cover that will enable proper ventilation to avoid mold, and if you're unsure of what cover to choose, consult an HVAC technician who can help you make the best decision for your unit.

10 . Maintain trees close to your home correctly trimmed.

Keeping trees close to your property trimmed is essential in preventing water damage to your home. Overhanging branches and limbs can break off during storms and heavy winds and damage your roof, gutters, and siding, allowing water to penetrate and cause extensive damage.

In addition, trees with overgrown limbs can interfere with power lines. During storms and harsh weather conditions, broken or fallen power lines can pose a significant safety hazard to your family and property. Power lines may also be pulled down by the tree's weight, causing further damage to your home.

Moreover, overgrown trees can cause underground water pipes to burst. As tree roots grow, they can wrap around and crush underground pipes, causing leaks and flooding. Leaking pipes cause water damage to your surrounding property, contribute to water wastage, and increase your water bills.

Lastly, an overgrown tree can significantly decrease your property's value. Trees that are too tall or too large can block sunlight from entering your home or your yard, leading to an uninviting and dreary atmosphere. They can also hide the beauty of your home, making it less appealing to potential buyers.

By keeping trees close to your property well-trimmed, you can prevent water damage, avoid safety hazards, and maintain the beauty and value of your home. Trimming trees regularly is an integral part of home maintenance, and hiring professional tree trimming services is crucial to ensure that the tree is trimmed correctly without any damage. Please don't fall into the trap of neglecting your trees; it's always better to take preventative action than to deal with water damage later.

How Fast Should Water Damage Be Handled?

Sometimes, no matter how effective your prevention, water damage still happens. When water damage occurs, it's crucial to address the issue as quickly as possible. The longer you wait, the more severe the damage can become. Mold can begin to grow within 24-48 hours of water damage occurring.

The longer water sits, the more difficult and expensive it can be to remove. Standing water can seep into carpets, walls, and other porous surfaces, causing extensive damage that may require replacement. It can also damage electrical systems and appliances, making them unsafe.

In addition, water damage can affect the air quality within your home. When water damage occurs, it's common for humidity levels to rise, creating a breeding ground for bacteria and mold. These contaminants can circulate through your HVAC system, causing further damage.

Don't wait to act; the longer you wait, the more severe the damage can become.

Professional water damage restoration companies should be open 24 hours a day, every day of the year. Work with a company that you will know to answer your 3 AM call and dispatch a crew of technicians immediately.

Filing a Water Damage Insurance Claim

If you have property insurance, knowing how to file a claim for water damage is crucial.

First, contact your insurance provider and provide them with all the details about the water damage incident.

Provide your adjuster with as many details as possible about the incident. This includes the water damage's cause, extent, and any actions you have taken to mitigate further damages.

When speaking with your adjuster, be honest and transparent about the incident. Refrain from misrepresenting or omitting information to avoid denying or delaying your claim.

Keep all communication with your insurance provider in writing, including emails and letters. The paper trail can be valuable should any disputes arise during the claims process.

The more detailed and organized you provide information to your adjuster, the smoother the claims process. Don't be afraid to ask questions and seek clarification. Your insurance provider is there to help you recover from the water damage, so work together to ensure a successful outcome.

Please take pictures of the damages to document them for your claim.

Taking pictures to document your water damage is a crucial step in filing an insurance claim. By having photographic evidence, you can prove the extent of the damage and provide visual support to your adjuster. Not only can pictures help speed up the claims process, but they also provide an accurate record of the damages. This evidence can prevent any misunderstandings or disputes with your insurance provider.

It's essential to document the damage as soon as possible after it occurs, without moving any damaged items, to capture the most accurate image of the situation. Take pictures of everything the water damage affects, including walls, floors, ceilings, furniture, and personal belongings.

In addition to taking pictures, creating a written record of the damages is also a good idea. This can include the incident's date and time, the water damage's source, and a list of all affected items.

Make an inventory list of items damaged or destroyed due to water damage, including any repair costs associated with each item.

Making an inventory of damaged items in a water damage incident is crucial for several reasons. For one, it can help you receive maximum compensation from your insurance provider. It provides a detailed account of the items you lost or damaged, and their corresponding value, allowing your adjuster to calculate the necessary coverage.

An itemized list of damaged possessions can also help replace or repair salvageable ones. You can use the list as a reference when working with water damage restoration professionals, ensuring that they know everything that needs to be restored, replaced, or repaired.

In addition, creating an inventory can help you assess the extent of the damage and understand the types of items that are most vulnerable. For example, while furniture and electronics may be expensive to replace, sentimental items such as family heirlooms cannot be quantified in monetary terms. Documentation of the losses can help you come to terms with the incident and provide a basis for moving forward.

Finally, inventorying damaged items also helps with the water damage restoration process. With the list in hand, restoration professionals can quickly identify the things that need to be removed, sanitized, and restored and prioritized their actions accordingly.

In essence, taking the time to document your losses after a water damage incident not only helps with the insurance claim process but also provides you with a clear idea of what was damaged, what needs to be replaced, and how to move on from the incident.

Collect any relevant documentation needed to submit a successful claim, such as proof of ownership and invoices from repairs.

Proof of ownership can include receipts, warranties, and other documents showing you are the rightful owner of the damaged items. This is important because your insurance provider must know that the claims were yours, and you can file a claim.

Invoices from repairs are also crucial documentation to gather during a water damage restoration project. These can include receipts from professional restoration services and any DIY repairs you may have done. The invoices should consist of a description of the repairs, their costs, and any warranties or guarantees offered by the repair service.

Other relevant documentation includes any communication with your insurance provider, such as emails, letters, or phone calls. These provide context to the claims process and show that you have been actively working to resolve the issue.

Additionally, if there were any witnesses to the water damage incident, gathering their contact information and written statements may be helpful. This can provide additional evidence to support your claim and help resolve any possible disputes.

File the official insurance claim with your insurer after gathering all supporting documents.

Your insurance provider will explain how to turn in documentation to them.

Work with a professional water damage mitigation company so you can get back on track faster by having repairs done quickly and correctly at minimal cost outlay on your part (check to see if this is covered under your policy).

Working with a professional water damage mitigation company can help homeowners get back on track faster. The most experienced water damage companies will:

• Take documentation on your behalf. Technicians will take photographs and videos for your insurance adjuster. They will know what the adjuster typically needs to see to validate your claim.
• Have a dedicated Project Coordinator assigned to your project. This person will work directly with your insurance adjuster to process your claim, including giving them the documentation required to validate it.
• Act to ensure your adjuster approves all services you need to get your property back to preloss condition. The Project Coordinator and Production Manager assigned to your property will understand everything your property needs, and they will be your allies as they work with your insurance provider to receive verification from your adjuster that these services are covered under your claim. If they are not, these same people should work with you one-on-one to help you understand how you can proceed when your claim may not fully cover all of your damages.
• Accept insurance claims. Professional restoration companies have extensive knowledge of insurance claims and should have proof of decades of experience helping clients process damage restoration claims. They should be able to and willing to help you through every step of the insurance claim process.
• Be full-service. The best damage restoration companies will do everything you need to get your property to preloss condition, including cleaning, restoration, and construction, as a covered portion of an insurance claim.

Monitor progress on repairs related to the claim until everything has been satisfactorily resolved.

One way to monitor the progress is to contact the restoration company and your insurance provider, requesting updates regularly. This can be done through phone calls, emails, or letters and should include specific details such as the status of repairs and estimated completion dates.

Another way to monitor progress is to inspect the restoration work regularly physically. You can schedule walkthroughs with the restoration company to see the repairs undertaken and evaluate the quality of the work.

It's essential to keep detailed records of all communications and inspections during the repair process. This can include notes on any issues or concerns that need to be addressed and photographic evidence of the repairs being made.

If delays or issues arise during the restoration process, it's crucial to immediately communicate these concerns to the restoration company and your insurance provider. Prompt action can help prevent further damage and ensure that repairs are completed to your satisfaction.

How Can SERVPRO of Dallas Love Help?

If you need help with a water damage claim, SERVPRO of Dallas Love is here to assist you. Our experienced professionals understand the process and can guide you every step of the way. We're here to help you get your life back to normal quickly.

Our team of experts can work directly with your insurance provider to ensure your claim is processed smoothly and accurately. We'll take photos and videos of the damage for your insurance adjuster and provide all necessary documentation to validate your claim.

We offer full-service restoration and construction services to restore your property to preloss condition. We offer many benefits, including cleaning, restoration, and construction, and our work is done as a covered part of your insurance claim.

At SERVPRO of Dallas Love, we understand that dealing with water damage can be stressful and overwhelming. That's why we have a dedicated Project Coordinator assigned to your project who will work with your insurance adjuster to ensure all necessary services are approved. We'll keep you updated on the progress of repairs related to your claim until everything has been satisfactorily resolved.

Our restoration professionals are equipped with the latest tools and technology to do the job right the first time. We take pride in our work and are committed to providing top-quality service to our clients.

If you're dealing with a water damage claim, don't hesitate to contact SERVPRO of Dallas Love. We're here to help you get your life back to normal quickly.

Contact us today to learn how we can assist you with water damage restoration needs.

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