Having water damage can be a challenge when you want to sell your house. Houston is no stranger to severe weather events, such as Hurricane Harvey, which cause widespread flooding and water damage. Houston itself is a city prone to flooding, with homeowners facing a 64% risk within 30 years, according to data from ClaimGuide.
Outside of natural disasters, water damage is a common occurrence in many homes. It can often be caused by a small issue that gets worse over time. A burst pipe, a leaky roof, or even a broken appliance can lead to water damage in a house. However extensive the damage is, it’s important for a homeowner to act fast, especially if they’re planning to sell a house with water damage.
What should you do if you have water damage in your Houston house?
Don’t wait to address water damage.
It’s important to act quickly if you have water damage in your house. The longer you wait, the more serious even a minor issue can become. Water damage can escalate quickly, leading to mold growth, structural issues, and more extensive repairs.
Close off the source of the water leak.
You need to identify and close off the source of the water leak. This could involve turning off the main water valve or fixing a burst pipe. Stopping the source of the water will help prevent any further damage and lessen the extent of future repairs.
Report the water damage to your insurance company.
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the water damage. They can guide you through the process of filing a claim and advise you on the next steps. Document the damage with photos and detailed notes to support your claim.
You should keep in mind that standard homeowners insurance policies typically do not cover flood damage, if that was the cause. Flood insurance must be purchased separately, and it’s crucial for homeowners in flood-prone areas like Houston.
Remove any standing water.
Removing standing water is essential to prevent further water damage to your house. You should use mops, shop vacs, fans, and dehumidifiers to dry out the area.
- Protective clothing: If you’re dealing with a flooded area like a basement, wear protective clothing, including rubber boots and gloves.
- Power safety: For flooded areas, consider shutting off power to that area at the breaker box to avoid electrical hazards.
In cases of severe flooding, consider professional water removal services.
Assess the extent of any water damage.
You will have to determine what needs to be repaired or replaced, including flooring, walls, insulation, and personal belongings. This will require a thorough survey of the affected area. You may want to get a professional inspection, which can provide a complete assessment of the damage and recommendations for necessary repairs for your Houston home.
Professional restoration services can help repair water damage and restore your home to its pre-damage condition. These services are not cheap, but they may be covered under your homeowners insurance policy. Check with your insurance provider for specific coverage details.
Sell to an off-market home buyer like We Buy Ugly Houses®.
If the water damage is more than you want to deal with, consider selling your house to We Buy Ugly Houses®. We specialize in buying houses in many different conditions, including those with water damage. When you work with an off-market home buyer, you get to:
- Skip getting inspections or making repairs and sell “as is.”
- Avoid commissions.
- Sell your house without worrying about disclosure laws, repairs, permits, and timelines.
Ready to sell your water-damaged house?
Selling your water-damaged house doesn’t have to be stressful. We Buy Ugly Houses® in Houston makes the process fast and easy, allowing you to move on without the hassle of repairs and inspections. We don’t charge commissions or hidden fees, and we pay all typical closing costs. You can even leave unwanted items behind, including water-damaged furniture, and we will take care of them at no cost. You may not get top dollar when selling to us, but the hassle-free process and quick closing could be just what you’re looking for.
Contact We Buy Ugly Houses today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Our experienced team of real estate specialists in Houston is here to help you every step of the way. Don’t let water damage hold you back—you can sell your house “as is” with We Buy Ugly Houses and move forward with confidence. Reach out to us today to get a free consultation.
This blog is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice.
