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Water damage can be stealthy. It might start with a small leak in the basement or bathroom; before you know it, you’re dealing with a full-blown emergency. When that happens, every second counts, and understanding what qualifies as a water damage emergency can save you from further property damage and costly repairs.
Here’s how to tell if water damage is classified as an emergency.
Assess the Scope of Damage
The first step is to identify the source of the water and how far it has spread throughout your property. If the damage is limited to a small area and is caused by clean water, such as a burst pipe or overflowing sink, it may not require immediate attention.
However, it’s considered an emergency if the damage has affected multiple rooms due to contaminated water from sewage backups or heavy rainfalls.
Additionally, standing water over a few inches deep can cause structural damage and pose a safety hazard, which qualifies as an emergency.
Consider the Time Factor
Time is of the essence when it comes to water damage. The longer you wait to address the issue, the worse it becomes. Within minutes of exposure to water, furniture and other belongings can become permanently damaged. Mold can grow within 72 hours, posing health risks to you and your family.
If you notice water damage that has been present for more than a day, it’s crucial to call for emergency restoration services immediately.
Evaluate the Risks
Aside from property damage, water emergencies can also put your safety at risk. Water can weaken the structure of your home, making it prone to collapse. It can also cause electrical hazards and create a breeding ground for bacteria and mold.
If you notice any of these risks associated with water damage, you must seek emergency services immediately, as they have the necessary equipment and expertise to handle dangerous situations safely.
Identify the Water Damage Category
Water damage is classified into three categories—the higher the category, the more severe the damage and emergency response required.
- Category 1: This is clean water from a sanitary source, such as a broken supply line or faucet. It poses no immediate health risks but can escalate to Category 2 if left untreated for too long.
- Category 2: This is greywater, which contains some level of contaminants and can cause illness if ingested. It can come from sources such as dishwasher or washing machine overflow.
- Category 3: This is blackwater, which contains highly contaminated water and poses a significant health risk. It can come from sewage backup, floodwaters, or stagnant water left standing for a long time.
If your water damage falls under Category 2 or 3, it’s crucial to seek emergency restoration services immediately.
Watch for Telltale Signs
Vigilance can mean the difference between a manageable repair and a full-scale water damage emergency. Be on the lookout for these telltale signs:
- A dramatic increase in your water bill
- Unexplained musty odors
- Discoloration on walls or ceilings
- Warping or buckling floors: signs of hidden water damage
- Unusual sounds like dripping or rushing water within walls may indicate a hidden leak
- Mold growth
Early detection is critical, and recognizing these indicators can prompt quick action, preventing a water damage emergency or mitigating its impact.
Responding to Emergency Water Damage
Once you’ve determined that your water damage qualifies as an emergency, it’s crucial to act quickly. Here’s what you can do to minimize the damage while waiting for professional help.
- Turn off the water source: If possible, turn off the main water supply to your property to prevent further damage.
- Disconnect electrical appliances: In case of standing water, it’s essential to unplug any electrical devices and move them away from the affected area to avoid electrocution.
- Protect your valuables: If valuable items are in the affected area, move them to a safe, dry place to prevent further damage or loss.
- Remove standing water: If it’s safe to do so, you can start removing standing water using buckets or towels. However, avoid entering rooms with deep-standing water as it may pose safety risks.
- Document the damage: Take photos or videos of the affected areas and any damaged belongings as evidence for your insurance claim.
Call Restoration 1 of North Georgia for Reliable Water Damage Restoration
Regarding water damage, it’s always better to err on the side of caution. If you’re unsure if your situation qualifies as an emergency, it’s best to call for professional help to assess the damage and advise you on the necessary steps to take.
Restoration 1 of North Georgia offers 24/7 emergency water damage repair and cleanup services to help restore your property to its pre-loss condition.
Call us at (678) 894-9750 for prompt and reliable emergency water damage cleanup and restoration services.
