We at ServiceMaster DSI believe that prevention and preparation are a homeowner’s best tools for staying safe and avoiding home damage. As evidence, we spent the year on our blog sharing industry best practices for identifying and preparing for a disaster, whether major or minor.
To wrap up 2022, we’re looking back at some of ServiceMaster’s most helpful disaster restoration tips, ones we’ve found to be true year after year.
Print these, share these, but most importantly – apply these in the year to come. You might just avoid a costly insurance claim.
WATER DAMAGE CLEANUP IS NOT A DIY PROJECT.
In the restoration industry, we know that no matter how water loss occurs, the cleanup can require everything from extraction to flooring disposal, drywall removal and even possible reconstruction.
Damage from water and bacteria can begin within a few hours. In fact, mold growth can begin within 24 to 48 hours after a water leak or flood. Even if the leak seems “minor,” quick attention is needed to prevent further, irreversible damage.
An added complication? Sometimes water damage is invisible and can’t be detected by touch alone.
Because water damage needs to be addressed immediately and requires specialized procedures and products, we urge you to remember: Water damage restoration is not a do-it-yourself project. Call in restoration experts for this cleanup.
STOP A WATER LEAK BEFORE IT BECOMES A SIGNIFICANT LOSS.
Every home will likely suffer from a leak at least once. The biggest question: How do you spot – and stop – a home water leak?
First, take a look at your water bill. Has it suddenly gone up? A consistent leak, such as a running toilet, can waste a substantial amount of water.
Second, check out pipe joins and P-traps underneath sinks, appliances, supply lines and toilet tank flappers regularly.
Are there odd smells coming from drains? Do you see warped or discolored flooring? Stains on the walls or ceilings? These, too, are all things that warrant your attention.
It may seem like a lot to inspect, but doing so may prevent costly water damage and repairs. Again, time is of the essence. By shutting off the main water valve or the valves at the source of the leak, you can help keep the damage minimal.
ENSURE YOU ARE PROPERLY PREPARED BEFORE A STORM.
La Niña. Hurricane Ian. Severe weather losses in the billions. These intense weather conditions highlight how important it is to prepare for the unexpected. No one expects a disaster to happen to them, but unfortunately, damages from ice storms, tornados, hail, floods and hurricanes occur frequently.
The most important thing in any storm is to equip yourself so the storm's effects don’t paralyze you in the aftermath. This includes keeping a well-stocked emergency kit with flashlights, batteries, first aid items, medications and more. Download a more detailed supply list here.
Remember to also keep up to date on your insurance policies. Contact your agent for information about changes to home property values and insurance coverage for the climate where you live.
PLAN FOR THE AFTERMATH OF A STORM.
Sometimes, despite all your best efforts, you can’t prevent a storm from wreaking havoc on your home. After a loss, it’s important to:
Acknowledge points of pain. First, recognize that home damage due to severe weather can be devastating. For example, it is common to feel sad, anxious and stressed to see standing water in your residence. Know there are experts like ServiceMaster DSI you can contact to assist you.
Call for help. The longer water is allowed to sit inside your home, the more extensive the cleanup process becomes. When your home is affected by a natural disaster, acting quickly is vital.
Take note of these steps and save them, along with pertinent contact information, on your phone or post to your fridge. Having a reminder of your plan can help you gain some sense of control when things feel hectic.
KNOW THE TELLTALE SIGNS OF MOLD.
When water leaks of any kind go undetected or unaddressed, mold growth is sure to follow. How do you know whether you have a mold problem that needs inspected?
You may not see mold easily, and sometimes you must rely on other signs of mold that can be trickier to detect.
The biggest giveaway? The smell.
If you’re hit with a musky odor or the smell of wet socks when you enter a room or open a cabinet, mold may be present. Additionally, if you start to feel allergy-like symptoms, you may have experienced mold inhalation.
Have you noticed signs of water damage, such as dark spots on the wall or peeling wallpaper? These are good indications you need mold remediation.
Again, removing mold is not a do-it-yourself project. You can easily spread mold spores when you rub at spots, even with bleach or other products. Our mold remediation process involves setting containment barriers and removing porous materials, such as drywall, to ensure proper mold abatement.
PRACTICE GOOD FIRE SAFETY TO KEEP YOUR HOME FROM PREVENTABLE DAMAGE.
During both the summer and winter months, we typically see a lot of residential fire damage. That’s largely due to people having fun in the summer and trying to stay warm in the winter – both of which are fine things to do. Sadly, failure to follow fire safety steps during these activities can mean the difference between a good time and a damaged home.
In the summer, clean grills and use fire pits only in open areas away from enclosed spaces or building overlays. Additionally, fireworks on July 4 are fun but also hazardous if not handled and disposed of properly.
In the winter, space heaters, chimneys, holiday decorations and candles all contribute to an increased risk of fire. Keep these things clean, in good repair and away from flammable items throughout the winter to reduce home fires. Also, remember to cook with care by keeping a close eye on your stove.
KEEP THE RIGHT SUPPLIES AND FIRE SAFETY EQUIPMENT ON HAND.
Install smoke detectors on every floor of your home, in every bedroom, and outside each sleeping area. Further, inspect and maintain your smoke detectors.
Test the alarm monthly. Replace the batteries at least once every year. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, replace the entire smoke alarm every 10 years.
Fire extinguishers can keep small, containable fires from growing out of control.
Need help learning how to use a fire extinguisher? Check out ServiceMaster Restore’s video tutorial on how to put out a fire.
CREATE A DISASTER RECOVERY PLAN FOR YOUR HOUSEHOLD.
National Preparedness Month and Fire Prevention Month gave us the perfect opportunity to talk about planning for disasters and emergencies that could happen at any time! Follow these takeaways throughout the coming year:
Build an emergency kit for everyone in your home, including your children, pets and older adults. Gather supplies that can last several days after a disaster.
Detail specific routes for how each will get to a safe place and how you will contact one another.
Think through different scenarios, especially with your children. Property is valuable, but your family is priceless!
We would like to tell you the new year will bring nothing but good things to your home structure, but the statistics show that may not be the case. About one in 60 insured homes has a property damage claim caused by water damage or freezing each year, while one in 385 insured homes has a property damage claim related to fire and lightning (Insurance Information Institute).
By following ServiceMaster DSI’s best tips for preventing and dealing with residential damage, you will avoid the worst of costly damages and claims. And for those things that cannot be avoided, our quick services and knowledgeable professionals are there to restore your house and your peace of mind.
For more information, contact us at 844-413-3130. We are ready to respond 24/7/365.
