Dealing with water damage in a house can be a difficult task, but knowing what to do can sometimes limit the damage or fix it. You can even successfully sell a water-damaged house if you go about it the right way. Let’s look at how to manage and repair water damage, what could be covered by homeowners insurance, and ways to sell a water-damaged house.
Water damage is a common issue in Milwaukee houses.
According to Consumer Affairs, “…water damage claims (including damage incurred from freezing temperatures or burst pipes) were the third-most frequently filed insurance claim for property damage, making up nearly 24% of all homeowners insurance claims…”
Water damage in Milwaukee homes can result from a variety of causes, including condensation issues in poorly ventilated rooms, pipe leaks, roof damage and severe storm flooding. Of course, burst pipes from freezing weather are a leading contributor to Milwaukee water damage.
Steps to take if your house suffers water damage
If you discover water entering your Milwaukee home, it's essential to take quick action to limit problems:
- Close off the source: If possible, stop the source of the water entry. Turn off the water supply if there’s a burst pipe. In the case of a flash flood, use sandbags, water-resistant barriers, or inflatable water barriers to block entrances and other areas where water is seeping in. Additionally, seal cracks and gaps with expanding foam and apply waterproofing compounds to basement walls to prevent water from entering. If water is coming in through the roof, cover furniture with plastic and try to contain drips with pails and buckets on the floor under the leaks.
- Contact your insurance agent: Report the issue to your insurance provider as soon as possible. Not only will the claims process be faster, but your agent will have good advice on what to do next. Learn what your policy covers.
- Remove the water: Use tools like mops, shop-vacs, rags, and fans to remove standing water. If water is getting high, turn off the power at the breaker box to prevent electrical hazards. Wear protective clothing including rubber boots and gloves, and you can call the Milwaukee fire department to help pump out the water.
Evaluate the damage.
Once the water has been removed, it's important to survey what damage has been done and what needs to be fixed or replaced. When the damage is considerable, it’s important to have a professional inspection to look for hidden issues. Inspectors have special tools to evaluate damage not visible to the eye, such as under floors and behind walls.
Mold removal when there’s water damage in a house
A common occurrence after a water event is the growth of mold. Mold loves moisture and dampness and can grow quickly. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), "Mold can begin growing in as little as 24 to 48 hours after water exposure if moisture is not dried up quickly." You can remove mold yourself with proper precautions.
If the job is too large, call in a mold remediation specialist. Milwaukee Consumer Affairs says, “The price of mold remediation in Milwaukee depends mainly on the size of the mold growth, where it’s growing and the amount of damage in your home or business. Most customers spend between $800 and $2,000, but it can cost less or considerably more.”
Restoration work
Homeowners insurance often pays for restoration services, so ask your agent about your policy.Water damage restoration experts use special tools for their work, such as high-powered fans, hygrometers to measure moisture, thermal imaging cameras, and anti-microbial sprays and cleaners to prevent mold and bacteria growth. Other restorations depend on the extent of the damage.
Restoration services play a vital role in repairing and restoring homes damaged by water. While these services may come at a cost, they are often covered by homeowners insurance policies. It's essential to consult with your insurance provider to understand your coverage and responsibilities.
Flood insurance in Milwaukee
Most homeowners insurance policies don’t cover damage from floods. They typically only cover damage like a burst pipe or overflowing appliance. If you live in a flood area, your mortgage company may require you to buy a separate flood insurance policy. The average price for flood insurance in Wisconsin is $1055/year, according to MoneyGeek, but it may cost more if you live in a high risk area.
How to sell a house with water damage
When there’s extensive water damage to a house, it may be difficult to sell the traditional way. Selling with We Buy Ugly Houses® in Milwaukee may be a good choice. We buy houses in “as is” condition, even houses with heavy water damage. There are other benefits of selling to us, too, such as no commissions, a quick closing, and no hidden fees. We also pay typical closing costs and provide great customer service, which is reflected in our amazing reviews. Our offers are typically discounted below market value in exchange for speed and convenience.
Just contact us for a free, no-obligation consultation with one of our friendly Milwaukee property buyers. We’ll come to your house, take a tour, and answer your questions. If you accept our offer, we can sometimes close in as little as 3 weeks. Let us know if you need more time, and we’ll work with you to choose a closing date that fits your schedule.
We can help you overcome the challenges of selling a water-damaged house. Contact us soon to learn more.
This blog is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice.
