Water Damage: 5 Reasons To Not Ignore It
If your property is experiencing flooding or plumbing issues, you will want to be on the lookout for water damage. Water damage may not seem like such a big deal, but it can create a lot of costly and dangerous problems if it is not promptly and properly dealt with. You should understand the following things to look for regarding water damage so that you know when it is time to call a professional.
1. Moist Conditions and Mold Risk
One of the biggest reasons it is important to get water damage checked out immediately is that mold can begin to grow. Mold can grow in moist places with or without the help of water damage, but spaces with water damage are at an increased risk of mold growth. Mold is not always visible to the eye because it can grow in the wall. You should be familiar with the side effects.
Mold is dangerous to the people living in the home. It is a common allergen and can cause wheezing, red and itchy eyes, and a runny nose, but you do not have to be allergic to it to have a reaction. Mold can cause more serious reactions in anyone who has asthma or is allergic. More serious reactions can include a fever or trouble breathing.
If you find mold or notice these symptoms, call a professional immediately and visit a doctor if necessary. Any residents in the home who are sick will not recover until the mold is removed.
2. Insurance Coverage
If you ignore the water damage too long and it does end up causing some costly repairs, you may be risking your insurance coverage. Depending on your insurance company, they may deny your claims due to the lack of initiative when the problems first arose.
If they decide the damages were caused because you waited too long to address the issues, you may have to pay for the repairs out of pocket.
3. Unstable Structures
It is safe to assume that your home is made primarily of wood. Water and wood are not friends. If wood sits in water for too long the wood will begin to rot. The rotting wood will not be strong enough to hold the weight, and your home could collapse. Not only does rotting wood cause expensive issues, but it can also make your home a dangerous place to live.
4. Electrical Issues
If water damage is ignored for too long, water could end up in places it does not belong. If your home is experiencing flooding or leaks, there is a risk that the water will interfere with the electricity, which can be dangerous. Not only can the water short-circuit the electricity in your home, but it will also create a higher risk of electrocution or fire.
5. Loss of Home Value
Unchecked water damage can lead to several unfortunate situations that can decrease the value of your home over time. If you have hardwood floors, your floor can become warped and may need to be replaced. Water can linger in the carpet and leave water stains and a musty smell behind. It can also cause paint to peel and drywall to crack.
Selling a home with water damage is not a good idea if you have a higher asking price. It is possible that the home would not pass the inspection with water damage.
If the home you are living in or the home you are trying to sell has water damage, contact us at AZ Emergency Plumbing LLC today for around-the-clock water damage restoration services. The earlier you contact us, the better chance we have of making your home look as good as new.
