The 6 Keys to Responding to Emergency Water Leaks

By: Wes Snowden,  Restoration Team Leader - Charter Construction

Damage to your home caused by water leaks can be one of the more devastating things one experiences. When a pipe breaks or another event occurs that causes water to be released where it doesn’t belong, it is essential to know how to respond.

The 6 Keys to Responding to Emergency Water Leaks

• Know where the central water shut off is to the home – Every residence has a “main” water valve that controls the supply of water to the house. Knowing where it is found and how to operate it (shut it off) makes a crucial difference in the amount of damage caused by a broken pipe and the subsequent ongoing release of water. Each resident should locate this valve and know how it operates. If a specific tool is needed to open or close the valve, that device should be permanently located adjacent to the valve itself. Keep the pathway to the valve clear so you can quickly respond in an emergency.
  
  
• Call a Trusted Mitigation Company, your Community Manager if you are part of a condominium or townhome association, and your insurance company agent and adjuster. As the owner, you can decide which mitigation company to use. You can also get referrals from your association manager, agent or adjuster. Time is of the essence. Many people do not realize that after 24 hours mold can start to grow – and once mold forms the reconstruction process becomes further complicated. That is why it is important to get mitigation started immediately.

Read More