There’s nothing like a sudden water leak in your home to cause an anxiety attack. Ruptured pipes, overflows, and other causes can cause substantial losses: Insurance companies pay out an average of $1.2 billion in claims every year due to water damage from indoor sources. Fortunately, like many household hazards, being prepared for a sudden water leak helps reduce panic — as well as potential losses.
Stay Ready
Be prepared to shut off all water to the house quickly in case of a sudden water leak. Know the location of the home’s main water-shut-off valve. Since these valves may become stuck or at least very hard to turn, test the valve twice a year. If it’s difficult to operate, contact a plumber to resolve the problem.
Contain the Damage
Even after the water is shut off, damage continues as water spreads inside the house. Act fast to mop up pooling water before the damage expands to other rooms. Use a mop or even towels to remove water and stop the spread. If an exterior door is nearby, open the door and push pooling water outside with a floor squeegee or a broom.
Prevent Mold
Dormant microscopic spores need only one element to convert into toxic mold growth: water. After a sudden water leak, the clock is ticking. Active mold growth begins contaminating a house within 48 hours. Take prompt steps to remove all water and dry out the home as soon as possible. If the amount of water released is more than a pool limited to the floor of a single room, contact a professional water-damage recovery service.
Stay Safe
Not every sudden water leak originates from a safe source like a broken water supply line or a washing machine. Raw sewage may be involved in plumbing backups that affect a house. Sewage is highly toxic and presents serious health threats. Clean-up is not a job for amateurs. Avoid all contact with sewage and call a professional water-damage service immediately.
For more advice about dealing with a sudden water leak in your home, contact Air Assurance.