Floods can occur without warning for homeowners regardless of location and time of year. As FEMA notes, “Flood season is year-round.” And it is important to note that you do not have to live in a flood zone to experience flood damage: “Anywhere it can rain, it can flood…”
Unfortunately, most homeowners are unprepared for a flooding event as well as the dangers still present after the water subsides. Dangerous mold can create health hazards for residents, and professional abatement is necessary to prevent illness and injury to homeowners.
What are the dangers of mold in a home after flooding? One of the greatest concerns is mold.
Exposure to mold can cause all sorts of health problems including asthma, allergic reactions, skin and eye irritations, and severe infections, especially for elderly residents with weakened immune systems.
Anyone returning to a home after a flooding event should wear protective equipment covering the eyes, mouth, nose, and skin. Any standing water should be removed, and water should be vacuumed out to dry the home’s interior as quickly as possible.
Open doors, windows, closets, and any interior rooms to increase airflow. Open cabinets and remove drawers, cleaning all areas carefully and wiping them dry. If you have electricity, the use of a humidifier can speed up the drying process. Any items that cannot be dried or cleaned should be thrown away.
If mold does develop in a home after a flooding event, the best step for homeowners to take is to contact a mold abatement contractor who has professional training in inspecting and cleaning mold-infested homes. Professionals have treatments and equipment to restore the damaged parts of a home, and mold abatement is best left to a professional environmental contractor with training to deal with the specific hazards mold presents.
Do you have environmental contractor clients involved in fire/water restoration and mold remediation services? C&S Specialty Underwriters offers an unparalleled Environmental Contractors and Consultants Insurance Program designed to meet the unique needs of professionals in the field. With a deep understanding of the challenges faced by environmental contractors and consultants, our comprehensive coverage includes protection against liabilities arising from pollution incidents, errors, and omissions. This program extends a safety net to businesses involved in mold remediation after a flood, ensuring they can operate confidently knowing they’re adequately insured. C&S Specialty Underwriters’ expertise in risk management and environmental insurance allows us to tailor policies to specific project requirements, providing peace of mind in an industry where precision and protection are paramount. Contact us for more information.
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