Understanding Black Water and Its Risks

11/16/2019 (Permalink)

Ways That Water Damage Can Affect Your Home

A household flood may not sound like a big deal - until you experience it. Whether you live in a high-risk area or not, having a plan for flooding is key. Not convinced your Adairville, KY, home could be impacted? Read these top ways that water damage can affect your home.

Flooding Can Happen Anywhere

Many homeowners don’t plan for flooding because they live in areas with few episodes. But flooding can come from many sources. While thunderstorms, tropical storms and hurricanes are indeed top causes, flooding can also come from things like excessive rain, snow melt or even poor drainage.

Safety Risks

There are many ways flooding can cause injury and loss of life. A major deluge can cause collapses or even knock down structures. But even a minor event can contaminate your home with black water - toxin-laden waste water than can cause serious infections if ingested.

Property Damage

It’s estimated that up to 90 percent of water damage from natural disasters is linked to flooding. Even a few inches of water is enough to weaken wood and damage foundations, not to mention the damage caused to electronics and the general contents of your home or business.

Financial Threats

Water cleanup isn’t cheap. Once the waters dry, homeowners may find themselves facing costs for everything from rebuilding and replacing belongings to temporary housing. Unfortunately, flooding is often not covered in general homeowners insurance.
How to Prepare
You know the risks, but what can you do to be prepared? Here are a few simple steps:

• Learn your region’s flood risk level
  
• Review your flood coverages with your insurer
  
• Invest in foundation vents or a sump pump
  
  

Perhaps most importantly, familiarize yourself with water damage remediation companies in your area. That way, whether you’re facing a few inches or a few feet, you’ll be ready to handle a flood quickly and get back to your regular life.