A flooded apartment is an emergency that many people don’t want to experience in life, but when it happens, it leaves you with lots of mess. Whether the flood is caused due to heavy rain, a burst pipe, or an overflowing bathtub, it will cause significant damage to the property even in a short amount of time. Taking fast action is essential to save your property so that it will end up with less damage and make the apartment look wonderful again. With professional cleaners or builders, you will get to know how easily you can clean up your home, efficiently and with minimal stress. Follow these steps so that you can clean up the flooded apartments and get them back to their original form.
Table of Contents
Flooded Apartment? Step-by-Step Cleanup Guide
Stay Safe Guide
Before making any step, make sure the surrounding environment of your apartment is safe. Ensure you turn off the electricity so that if water reaches the electrical outlets, appliances, or power boards, it will not end up in any hazard. If you are unable to access it safely, then call an electrician. Floodwater may contain hidden hazards or contaminants like broken glass, so try not to wade through deep water. Use rubber boots, gloves, and a mask to save yourself from dirty water and mould. If you think flooding is significant and from a natural disaster, then book a professional help or contact the local emergency services so that they can give you all the clear instructions before entering your home.
Block The Source
If the flood is coming from inside the apartment, like that is due to a burst pipe, overflow of bathtub, or leaky washing machine, etc, then immediately turn off the water supply. Most apartments have a water shutoff valve. So, go to that to close the unit, or if you don’t know, then go to the nearby service area. Once the water flow is stopped, try to document the damage. Click some pictures, record videos of the affected areas, belongings, and furniture. It will help you when you are seeking insurance claims and landlord reports.
Call the Building Manager or Landlord
In case your apartment is on rent, you must notify the property manager or landlord immediately. They may have preferred contractors to deal with water damage or guide you on what to do next. For owners in strata-titled buildings, you need to alert the strata manager. It is required to check for the components like ceiling spaces, flooring, and common pipes must be covered under strata insurance.
Remove Excess Water
Now, the perp is done, you are ready to start with the clean-up process. Follow some simple ways by which you can remove the standing water. Use containers or buckets to remove a large amount of water. Use old towels or absorbent clothes to mop up the small puddles. Using a wet or dry vacuum can help speed up the process. Make sure the doors and windows of the space are open, which will increase the air circulation and dry out things. The quicker you get rid of water, the less damage might occur to the space, and will result in less mould growth.
Move Wet Items
You need to remove the waterlogged rugs, furniture, cushions, and personal belongings. Keep them under the sun so that it will help to dry them as quickly as possible. You can also elevate the wet items so which will help in allowing the air circulation underneath. Make sure you have photos and videos of everything before throwing them out, as this will help to get the insurance claim. Soft furnishings like mattresses, rugs, and upholstered furniture, which is not salvageable when soaked too long. Dry them out as much as you can and then wait for professional advice.
Dry the Apartment
Moisture can linger in the walls, floors, and it is required to have the air to dry out the space completely. To achieve that, you can use the fans, heaters, and dehumidifiers, but make sure they are safe to plug in. Keep windows open during the daytime so that the space will dry out with natural light and warmth. Wipe down the surfaces regularly as moisture continues to evaporate. It will take several days to fully dry the apartments, especially when it is a highly humid atmosphere. Be patient and keep the air moving as much as possible.
Clean and Disinfect
Once the drying is done, sanitisation of the same place is necessary. Flood water may contain bacteria if that is due to sewer backup or a storm. Make sure you use antibacterial cleaners or diluted bleach solutions on hard surfaces. Wash all fabrics, including towels, clothes, and curtains, in hot water with detergent. Steam cleans the carpets to ensure they are fully dried and cleaned. Always pay attention to the skirting boards, corners, and hidden areas as these are spaces more likely to get mould. Check for the areas with musty smells, as that can be an indication of dampness or hidden mould.
Check for Mould
Mould may grow in 24 to 48 hours in damp environments. Check the areas for the signs, including a musty odour, having green or black patches, and respiratory symptoms like sneezing or coughing due to a weird smell or dampness. If you feel mould is developing, then clean the smaller areas using vinegar, or you can also use the mould-specific sprays. Having large and persistent patches, then hire professional mould removal services.
Contact Insurance
Having renters or homeowners’ insurance, then make sure you contact them immediately. Give them your documents like videos and photos, or a list of damaged items, receipts for emergency repair (if any). Your insurance may claim some repairs, replacements, or temporary accommodation. Make sure you check for them and get them if needed.
Plan for Future
Once everything is clean and dry. Then you need to take some steps to avoid future flooring. Install water alarms or leak detectors, keep the drains clear from debris, get the plumbing inspections regularly, and know where are shutoff valves are so that you can take immediate action in an emergency. If you are living in the flood-prone areas, then make sure you have a word with the landlord or strata for long-term improvements like sump pumps, barriers, or better drainage solutions.
Conclusion
Cleaning the flood can be overwhelming, but if you go through a step-by-step process, then it will make it manageable for you. If you are planning a DIY, then make sure you have detailed knowledge, experience, and the right tools to efficiently do the work, and if not, then you can hire professionals like Innovare Builders for expert work done. We specialize in water damage restoration in Brisbane, and we are committed to helping Australians build and maintain safe and durable homes. For professional help, advice, and guidance after the flood, you can get in touch with our team today!
