DRYING FLOODED HOUSES

The most important thing to consider when going into a flooded house is safety. Electrical equipment and appliances like water heaters may present a shock hazard and stepping into standing water in the same area can be dangerous. In cases of significant standing water, like natural flooding, all power to the home should be shut off or an electrician should be called to make sure conditions are safe.

Next, if the source of the water is unknown, it should be determined. Infrared thermal imaging cameras can trace the extent of water migration and often locate the source. Professionals like roofing contractors or plumbers may be needed to pinpoint the source and make repairs.

Once electrical hazards and the source of the water have been addressed, water extraction should begin. Standing water is the “easy water” that can be removed from floors and extracted from carpets and rugs. The longer water is allowed to sit in a home or building, the more it will be absorbed by walls, trim, and framing, making it not quite as easy to remove.

Left to dry on their own, walls and trim will likely grow mold which can present serious health hazards. The drying process must be accellerated through air movement and humidity control. High speed fans are pointed toward wet building materials to send moisture into the air. If the airborne moisture is not collected, the drying process will take longer. Dehumidifiers are used to remove the moisture from the air and direct the water collected into a nearby sink, bath, or shower drain. Hydroxyl generators can be operated during the drying process to inhibit the growth of bacteria and mold. HEPA air scrubbers are typically used during drying to collect airborne contaminants.

Infrared thermal images and digital photos are taken to document the drying process. Moisture and humidity readings are also taken daily. All photos and documents showing affected areas, equipment setup, and moisture and humidity readings are provided at job completion, when all affected areas have reached their normal moisture levels. These documents should be sent to the adjuster for insurance documentation.