Water damage in your home can be more than just a mess. Standing water can weaken your home’s foundation. After the flood waters recede, mold, bacteria, and other contaminants can cause serious health problems – especially for the elderly and young children.
Cleaning up quickly after a flood is essential to limiting water damage, but should you do it yourself, or call in a professional?
How Extensive is the Water Damaged Area?
If the water damaged area is fairly small, less than 10 feet by 10 feet, you may be able to do the cleanup yourself using common household cleaning supplies. If the damage is more widespread, or you have had standing water for more than 24 hours, you should call a professional water damage restoration contractor.
Do You Have Flood Insurance?
If you plan to file a flood insurance claim to pay for flood cleanup, your insurance company may require you to hire a licensed contractor. Speak to your insurance adjuster before you decide to make any water damage repairs yourself.
Do You Have the Time and Resources to Do Water Damage Restoration Yourself?
A flood cleanup project is more time- and energy-intensive than regular home maintenance. You may be able to rebuild your deck or paint a room when it is convenient for you, but water damage restoration must be done quickly to limit the damage to your property and possessions. Unless you have the flexibility to make flood cleanup your main priority for the days and weeks following the water damage event, hiring a professional may be the best option. They will restore your home while you concentrate on other aspects of your life.
Flood Cleanup Cost
Professional water damage restoration is not inexpensive. On average, you can expect to spend between $10 and $12 per square foot of damage. Your homeowners’ flood insurance should pay for most of the cost, minus your deductible. If your home was damaged as a result of a natural disaster, there may be grants and other assistance programs available to you as well.
