If water pipes have erupted or severe weather has breached your home’s security, there are things you should do immediately.

Electrical appliances might be unsafe, gas lines could have incurred damage, or sewage water might have contaminated the building. Moisture from flooding can attract the growth of mold.

If the situation isn’t remedied in the first 24 hours of a flood, the final bill might be a large and costly mistake. Here’s what to do.

Contact a cleaning company

In the case of environmental flooding, blackwater might be present. Blackwater is water contaminated by animal or human fecal matter.

This can occur when a river bursts its banks, and there is cattle dung in the run-off or when sewage pipes become broken. This is why it’s important to hire a professional.

Water damage restoration experts from British Columbia can assess the building for blackwater, drain it and treat the area, so that it is safe to re-inhabit. They can also clean carpets and furniture and prevent the development of mold.

Turn off the mains electricity

The most vital step is to turn off the mains electricity and all the fuse connections so that water and electricity don’t mix. This protects both the inhabitants of the building and any clean-up personnel.

Document the damage

When it is safe to do so, you should photograph all areas of flooding so you have documentation of the damage for your insurance provider. This will help the home- or business-owner to obtain coverage for their expenses. The insurance company should be on the phone as soon as possible.

Accidents happen, and if your home has been flooded, professional remediation companies can make it safe again and restore it to its former glory.