Flood Loss Prevention

Flood Loss Prevention

Preventing And Preparing For A Flood

As the nation's recognized experts in flood loss prevention and recovery we at AmeriServ Water Damage Restoration would like to share these helpful tips. We hope this information on flood prevention and preparation will keep your family from needing our services or minimize damage if you ever do! 

• Be aware that most insurance companies do not cover floods that result from sump pump failure or drain back-up, though some offer affordable riders to existing policies. Check your home owner's policy and see if you have such coverage. If not, contact your agent and ask about adding this or "Act of God" type flooding coverage.

• If you live in a home that is 5 to 10 years old or more it is important to have your drains checked and possibly snaked out. If there are trees in your yard, for instance, the roots may grow into drain pipes causing unnoticed blockage between house and sewer.

• If you have a sump pump that runs regularly, consider a back-up system. Some plumbing companies offer systems that work off of water pressure in the event electrical service is lost. And test your sump on occasion by filling the sump hole with enough water to trigger the pump.

• Be certain to turn off outside water spigots from inside the home for the winter season. These valves are typically found opposite the spigot inside the home. Don't forget to have your irrigation system turned off and serviced.

• Inspect the hoses behind your washing machine, under sinks, on refrigerator ice-makers, etc. These hoses can burst and cause flooding -- often due to inferior quality hoses. Replace hoses with the "burst proof" ones available at most big box hardware and lumber stores. The most common hose to burst is the hot water feed line on the back of washing machines. Replace poor quality black rubber ones with braided, burst-proof hoses.

• Never run washing machines or dishwashers when away from home.

• Valuable items stored in basements such as photos, documents, clothing, etc. should be placed in water-tight containers or plastic contractor bags. Large Tupperware containers work well and are affordable. Also consider putting storage items on top of two by four wood or purchasing shelving units which protect from at least 4 to 6 inches of flooding.

• Never leave your home for significant periods of time without shutting off the main water valve into the home. The most damaging flooding typically occurs during winter months when pipes freeze on the second level of an unoccupied home, causing thousands of dollars in damages and requiring families to relocate during repairs.

AmeriServ Water Damage Restoration experts are always available at
 (888) 278-1470