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Why DIY Flood Damage Restoration is Dangerous

flood damage restoration yakima waMost people have to deal with flood damage at some point in their lives. Regardless of how prepared someone might be, flood damage can still happen for reasons outside of anyone’s control. As unexpected issues arise, professional restoration may seem unnecessary or too expensive to consider. However, depending on the severity of the damage, attempting to restore the affected area on your own without any professional experience can be hazardous and, ultimately, more costly.

Flood Damage Restoration – Yakima, WA

Although flood damage restoration may appear to be a simple task on the surface, it can be deceptively complex. Here are a few reasons why DIY flood damage restoration can be more dangerous than it’s worth:

Lack of Experience

The biggest danger involved with DIY flood damage restoration is a lack of experience. Even if you’re a handy person and feel comfortable handling home repairs, flood damage restoration is an entirely different animal. You need to have a thorough understanding of the damage caused by flooding and know how to properly repair and restore the affected areas. In addition, you need to have access to the right tools and equipment which can be expensive to rent or purchase.

Without experience in flood damage restoration, you may not be aware of the full extent of the damage. This can cause you to miss things in need of repair, leading to further problems down the road.

Exposure to Hazardous Materials

Floodwaters can contain a range of hazardous materials, including sewage, bacteria, and other toxins. If you’re not properly equipped to handle these materials, you could be putting yourself and your family in danger. In addition, floodwaters can also contain sharp debris that can cause injury if not handled carefully. Professional restoration teams have specialized protective gear and training that aids them in safely handling the damage.

Electrical Hazards

Flood damage can cause electrical hazards, such as exposed wiring and electrical shorts. If you’re not familiar with electrical systems, attempting to repair these problems yourself can be incredibly dangerous. In addition, if you don’t turn off the power to the affected areas, you could be at risk of electrocution. You should always follow the guidance of professional restoration experts and electricians.

Structural Damage

Flood damage can also cause structural damage to your home that ruin its stability. If you attempt to repair structural damage yourself, you are putting yourself at risk of injury if the structure collapses. In addition, if the repairs are not done properly, the structural integrity of your home could be compromised, which could lead to more serious and costly problems down the road.

Insurance Coverage

If you attempt to repair flood damage yourself, you may be putting your insurance coverage at risk. Most insurance policies require that you use a professional flood damage restoration company to make repairs. If you attempt to make repairs yourself and something goes wrong, your insurance company may deny your claim. Professional restoration companies have the necessary certifications and experience to work with insurance companies. They know how to properly document the damage and repairs and can work with your insurance company to ensure you receive the coverage you’re entitled to.

While it may be tempting to attempt flood damage restoration yourself to save money, it’s important to consider the dangers involved. Without the proper experience, equipment, and safety gear, you could be putting yourself and your family in danger. Professional flood damage restoration companies have the experience and knowledge to properly handle the restoration process and ensure your home is safe and secure. If you’re dealing with flood damage, it’s always best to leave it to the professionals. If you are a property owner in Yakima, WA, contact Clean Image Services.