3 Important Steps to Take After a Home Emergency

Navigating a home emergency can be confusing and overwhelming. Keep these important steps in mind after experiencing a flood or fire in your Beverly Hills, Florida, home.

Make Safety a Priority

Even if it seems like the initial cause of the emergency is over, there may still be safety hazards. Fire and wind can damage the structure and foundation of the house. Flooding can put you at risk of electrical shock or fire damage. Your home’s water and gas lines may also be damaged. Always keep safety in mind as you assess the damage. Avoid entering the house until you are advised that it is safe.

Call the Insurance Company

It is always a good idea to notify your insurance company of a home emergency as soon as possible. Depending on your policy, the insurance company may require that you notify them before cleaning up begins or making any repairs. They may also require photographs of the damage. Most insurance companies have a 24-hour line available to report emergencies. They will advise you whether or not the damage is covered with your policy and recommend the next steps to take.

Hire a Restoration Company

It’s not always possible to evaluate the full extent of the damage to your home without a trained professional. Water damage, for example, can soak into the floorboards and walls. Failing to remove all of the water can cause biological growth. The smoke and soot from a house fire can settle into the walls and flooring, leaving behind a burned smell on all your belongings. It is important that you work with a restoration company that is experienced in remediation, cleaning, and restoring your home back to its pre-damaged state.

Unfortunately, home emergencies happen. Taking the right steps following an emergency can ensure that your home is safe for you and your family to return to. Call ServiceMaster Professional Services today at 352-503-8013 to discuss your flood, biological growth, or fire-related needs.

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