Summer Flooding Doesn't Have to be Stressful

6/8/2022 (Permalink)

If you experience water damage during flash flooding please call SERVPRO of Iowa City/Coralville at 319-338-8550.

Hello Everyone!

It’s Jacob, Digital Marketing Support Coordinator, and I wanted to take some time to talk about one of the most significant issues of the summer season, flooding. If you're going to read what the farmer’s almanac has predicted, feel free to read more. Recently our SERVPRO of Sedalia franchise area experienced flash flooding that caused widespread damage. Last week the Mayor of Sedalia declared it a disaster following the heavy rainfall. With this being said, I wanted to talk about what to do if you find your property in the path of a flash flood.

Preflooding: Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

The biggest thing you can do to expedite any confusion for a claim is document your belongings. Often a property will have items swept away during flooding, so documenting before can help your insurance claims process. You could take pictures of your high-value Items or do a video as you walk through your home. 

Another problem with flood damage is that often it isn’t included in your insurance policy. We suggest that if there is a chance that your home is on the flood plain, purchase flood insurance. 

Water is Rising: QUICK ACTION REQUIRED

Okay, so there is flooding in the area, and you can see water rising in the streets or perhaps the nearby river. Don’t wait but start to move the items you don’t want to get ruined and move them to either a higher surface, countertop, or move items to another floor. Make sure that nonperishables and water is stored preferably in the attic space. 

Water is Here: Last To-Dos

We suggest that you supply your home with expanding foam. When the water rises, use the expanding foam to go over cracks and crevices, then seal it with multiple layers of duct tape. If the water intrudes the space and you have standing water, you MUST turn off the breaker box. If the water gets into the wall sockets, it will act as a conductor causing it to be electrified. 

We hope that none of you fall victim to a flash flood, but it has happened before in the surrounding areas. If you find yourself in this situation, please seek shelter on the top floors of your property. Don’t try and escape by car, and more importantly, if you are driving and come across standing water on the road, do not try and navigate through it.