Floods can be devastating to those who experience them. Prolonged exposure to moisture from floodwaters creates an ideal environment for fungal growth and wood decay. Rot compromises the strength and durability of the wood, causing it to become soft, spongy, and prone to crumbling.
Besides the immediate safety concerns, one of the most pressing issues is water extraction and cleanup. This is where a water extraction company steps in, playing a crucial role in restoring affected properties. Let’s delve into the responsibilities of a water extraction company in the aftermath of floods.
- Emergency Response: Immediate response should be the top priority for any reputed water extraction company. Floods don’t adhere to regular business hours, so these companies often operate 24/7. They must be ready to dispatch a team of professionals promptly to mitigate further damage and begin the extraction process as soon as possible.
- Assessment and Evaluation: Upon arrival at the flood property, the water extraction team assesses the extent of the damage. They conduct a thorough evaluation to determine the severity of water intrusion, identify affected areas, and assess potential safety hazards. This assessment guides their strategy for water extraction and cleanup.
- Water Extraction: The core responsibility of a water extraction company is, as the name suggests, to remove water from the property. This involves using specialized equipment such as pumps, vacuums, and extractors to efficiently remove standing water from floors, carpets, and other affected surfaces. Swift and thorough water extraction is crucial to prevent further damage and mold growth.
- Drying and dehumidification: Once the standing water is removed, the next step is drying and dehumidification. Water extraction companies deploy industrial-grade air movers and dehumidifiers to accelerate the drying process. This helps prevent structural damage, mold infestation, and the proliferation of bacteria and pathogens in a damp environment.
- Cleanup and Sanitization: Floodwaters often carry contaminants and pollutants, posing health risks to occupants. Therefore, thorough cleanup and sanitization are essential tasks for a water extraction company. They remove debris, sanitize affected surfaces, and apply antimicrobial treatments to prevent microbial growth. This not only restores the property’s cleanliness but also ensures a safe and healthy indoor environment.
- Content Restoration: In addition to the structural components of the property, water extraction companies may also offer content restoration services. This involves salvaging and restoring water-damaged belongings such as furniture, electronics, documents, and personal items. Advanced techniques like drying chambers, ozone treatment, and ultrasonic cleaning may be employed to restore items to pre-flood condition whenever possible.
- Coordination with Insurance: Dealing with insurance claims can be complex and daunting for homeowners affected by floods. A responsible water extraction company assists clients by documenting the damage, providing detailed reports, and coordinating directly with insurance providers. This streamlines the claims process and alleviates some of the burden on the property owner during this stressful time.
Conclusion
The responsibilities of a water extraction company after floods extend far beyond merely removing water from a property. They play a major role in protecting homes from damage, restoring safety and cleanliness, and facilitating the recovery process for affected homeowners. By promptly and effectively addressing these responsibilities, water extraction companies help homeowners navigate the challenging aftermath of floods and regain a sense of normalcy in their lives.
