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Recovering from Water Damage

6 Steps to Recovery from Water Damage in a Condo

 Are you wondering, “How do I deal with water damage from the condo above me?” Here are the easy six steps showcasing how you can go from water damage to zero damage in a matter of few hours.

Water damage is a very common issue found in condominiums and apartments which can take several days to show up or it can trickle down in a matter of few minutes. By executing these six steps, you will not only be able to minimize the impact of the damage but reduce your costs significantly by implementing the right action plan.

Read on to find out exactly what you need to do to handle this mess.

To start off, first clean up the area and find a way to prevent water leakage into your unit. You can do so by placing unused clothes and towels to stop the water from flowing everywhere. In addition to that, you can also place a bucket or a large bowl under that wall or unit that will collect the soiled water.

Follow these six steps for handling water damage:

 

  1. KNOCK ON YOUR NEIGHBOUR’S DOOR

 

At times, it is possible where the neighbor is not aware of the problem or may be out of the city. Therefore, it is always good to reach out to them as soon as possible perhaps through a call, text, or email.

 

Once you have gotten into contact with your neighbor, briefly explain the extent of water damage in your condominium and the need for resources needed to make repairs as quickly as possible.

 

  1. CONTACT BUILDING MAINTENANCE

 

Whether or not you’ve managed to reach a neighbour, addressing the issue to the maintenance staff (your Property Manager, Building Maintenance Staff, or your Condo Board as required) is the next step. Make sure they have a thorough understanding of the damage and how it can potentially affect other areas/units of the condo and the condos of other owners and tenants.

 

  1. PERFORM IMMEDIATE CLEANUP

 

To minimize further damage – make sure you’ve cleaned up as much standing water or debris as possible, documenting as you go with photographs or video.  No matter how big or small the damage is, it has to be communicated and taken care of to restrain further mold and mildew growth.

 

  1. CALL YOUR INSURANCE AGENT/COMPANY

Calling your insurance company with documentation of damage is the next step.  Check your building management documentation to ensure that you’ve complied with condo regulations, and provide a clear description of the problem.  If you don’t contact them immediately, you may encounter problems claiming support for the damages. Don’t assume that individuals living upstairs will reimburse you for the water damages.

 

  1. REVIEW YOUR CONDO POLICY

Contact your Condo Board or Association and request details and documents of their master insurance policy, and any terms or liabilities for unit owners. Email one to your insurance agent so that he or she can determine its coverage and identify the liabilities for your loss.

 

  1. FIND A RESTORATION CONTRACTOR, NOT A GENERAL CONTRACTOR

When it’s time for repairs – work with your Insurance agency to contact the nearest restoration contractor.  Unlike General Contractors, Restoration specialists have experience in the kinds of damage that typically arise from water damage, and can ensure that you will have no trouble in the future.

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