Water damage disasters can strike without warning. The devastation caused can be immense – that’s why it’s imperative to have a trusted, professional water damage restoration team on your side. These damages can happen from many different sources.
Most common damages are a result of:
- Burst plumbing pipes
- Flooding from storms or wind-driven rain
- Sewage backups, toilet, and septic tank overflow
- Malfunctioning appliances resulting in leaks or discharge
Bakersfield is one of the hidden gems of California. The affordable housing and expansive school districts attract many Californians looking for a place their family is proud to call “home.” With more than half of the year averaging clear days, beautiful weather is an everyday norm here. Water disasters don’t discriminate, and even the most alluring municipalities can be afflicted.
Quick response is necessary for effective remediation and restoration. Without speedy intervention, a small problem can easily snowball into major damages. These damages can include:
- Microbial growth, which can develop in as little as 24 to 48 hours.
- Structural deterioration requiring significant reconstruction efforts.
- Destruction of personal property, which may or may not be able to be repaired.
Tip Top Restoration of Bakersfield has the tools to handle all water damage types. The category of water indicates potential hazards present. There are three categories that water damage falls under:
- Clean water: water from a clean source, like a burst pipe. This is known as Category 1 and does not pose health hazards. However, the length of time can escalate it into Category 2.
- Grey water: water contaminated by household chemicals or cleaning products. Category 2 health hazards include mild to moderate skin irritation, as well as other health problems.
- Black water: water contaminated by sewage. Category 3 is the most dangerous type of water damage that poses serious health risks if exposed. Bacteria and other pathogens are present in the water.
Tip Top Restoration of Bakersfield is your local team available 24/7 to address your concerns and restore your property to pre-loss condition. Our team of technicians are experts in evaluating the unique needs of your property. From start to finish, you can depend on us to:
- Quickly arrive on site to inspect and assess the source of water damage.
- Pump out the standing and hidden water.
- Ensure the structure dries out thoroughly by monitoring and maintaining equipment.
- Remediate microbial growth if needed.
- Clean up, disinfect, and restore to pre-loss condition.
After you make the call to our team, there are a few steps you can take to minimize overall damages:
- Shut off the water source, if possible, or contact a professional who can help
- Remove and protect items such as electronics, important documents, and sensitive valuables
- Remove excess water on floors by mopping or using towels
As important as it is to know the correct steps to take, it is just as important to be mindful of what not to do:
- Do not attempt to vacuum the water as this may cause electrical shock or damage to the vacuum
- Do not use electronic devices or appliances that have come into contact with water
- Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.
Tip Top Restoration of Bakersfield works with your insurance company on your claim. Many homeowners’ policies cover sudden and accidental losses, such as a burst pipe. Water damage as a result of another covered peril is typically covered, such as water damage that occurs as a result of firefighting efforts against a house fire. Flood damage usually is only covered by an additional flood policy. Gradual damages, which include leaking pipes or a slow leak in the roof, are not considered sudden, so policies typically exclude those losses. Reading your insurance policy thoroughly to understand what is and is not covered by your specific policy is always key to avoiding unpleasant surprises.