What to do when a LEAK or FLOOD damages your NJ home? Thefollowing our some steps you can take:
Safety First
- Wet floors can be slippery. Watch your step!
- Wet ceilings can fall. Watch out for sagging or dangerous ceilings.
- Standing water can cause dangers from electric shock. Use extreme caution. When in doubt, stay out!
- Don’t use household vacuums to remove water.
- Keep children out of damaged areas. Remember young ones will be curious, so keep an eye on them.
Find the source of water
- Shut off the water supply if there is a water line break. Usually the main shut off valve is best.
- If there is a broken or frozen pipe, call a plumber. Have the plumber save all repaired parts to show the adjuster.
- If your floor drain is plugged, make sure there are no obstructions in the floor drain pipe and check the outlet for good flow. If the pipe is plugged, call a qualified individual to unplug it.
- If your roof is leaking check for fallen trees, blown off shingles, or other obvious causes. Have a qualified individual tarp the affected area until repairs can be made.
Preserve and protect
- Place foil or plastic under furniture legs. Move compressed wood furniture out of wet areas as soon as possible.
- Move as many light items out of the damaged area as possible.
- Remove contents from floor areas in closets.
- Place draperies through coat hangers and hang them from curtain rods to prevent water damage.