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The water we take for granted in our home can become a destructive force, from a simple pipe leak to an area flood, water can cause an extensive amount of damage, spreading everywhere and doing more damage by the minute as it soaks in. Regardless of the source, water damage in your home is something that needs to be dealt with quickly by taking whatever immediate actions you reasonably can to minimize the damage.

Your first step if possible is to find and stop the source of the water. If it is an internal leak it may be necessary to shut the water to the entire house until the leak is repaired. If it is an area flood you may need to take drastic redirection or blocking and bagging action.

Next, if safe, you must do what you can to minimise the water damage. This may be as simple as mopping up the water with towels or may mean calling for external
help. Do not attempt to clean up if the water has a large sewerage content as there may be dangerous bacteria involved.

Where possible and if safe to do so, move contents and family treasures above or away from the water.

Water Damage Prevention

• Check for hidden leaks behind appliances, taps, piping and at low points
• Know where the main water valve and check to make sure it is operational
• Check roof tiles periodically
• Clean gutters regularly
  

Water Damage Situation

• Check for survival and injury of family members
  
• Isolate and clean up affected area if possible and can be done safely
• Turn off gas, electricity, water if necessary and can be done safely
• Take Grab Bag and evacuate if necessary
• Where you have time, put your ‘Do & Take List’ plan into effect for other important items and family treasure.
• Depending on scale of damage, call 1300 SCOTIA if necessary