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If you’ve ever had a water leak in your home, you know that a minor inconvenience can become an expensive lesson right away. The great part for you is that a minor water leak doesn’t have to become a full-blown disaster. Here are a few essential tips to help you stop the flood in your home, before severe damage and expenses pile up.

Try To Stop the Flow

Although it may seem quite apparent, the first step is to locate the leak and turn off the water at its source. Locate all of the shutoff valves in your home and turn off the water. If you can’t figure out where the water is coming from, you may need to shut off water to the whole house.

If your home is serviced by a well, the shutoff can generally be discovered on the house side of the pressure tank. If your home has a water meter, the whole-house shutoff often can be found near the meter itself.

If not, it may be an in-ground valve covered by a metal plate. If you do not know where your whole-house shutoff is, it may be wise to contact your water utility or a licensed Long Beach Plumber to find out prior to being faced with a flood emergency.

Our Long Beach Plumbers say that if your dishwasher is leaking, the first place to look is under the sink. If you can’t find the valve under the sink and you have a basement, look between the ceiling beams just below the appliance. Is the water leak coming from your toilet?

The shutoff valve is usually an oval-shaped handle underneath the toilet tank. If your clothes washer is the source of the leak, the shutoff valves are generally located where the lines that supply your house meet the washer hoses. If your roof is leaking, cover the roof with a tarp to prevent water damage in your home. If you can’t stop the water flow, call a licensed plumber immediately.

Dispose of Water

Our Plumbers In Long Beach, CA recommend you get water removed from your home as soon as possible. Although you might be tempted to use a water vacuum and do the job yourself, a variety of homeowners opt to use a water damage restoration professional. Once the water has been finally removed, make sure you open up windows and doors to properly allow your home to air out and dry.

Although visible water will be removed, it is pivotal to address any trapped or hidden water. Hidden water can cause a mold problem, which can present health hazards. The fortunate part for you is that your insurance company may be able to refer you to a disaster recovery company who can identify problem areas and remove the water fast and efficiently.

Safeguard Your Valuables

Protect your computer equipment, essential paperwork and any valuables to prevent them from being damaged or completely ruined. Move valuable items to a dry room or put items in storage if needed. Our Plumbers in Long Beach, CA suggest you make sure to keep crucial documents such as medical records readily accessible in case of a medical emergency.

Properly Document the Damage

Document any water damage caused by the water leak and it suggested that you take photos. Additionally, make sure to talk to your insurance agent to help figure out the type of coverage you have. Is there a deductible? Should you wait for an adjuster prior to making any repairs?

  • Does your policy require you to take steps to keep damage from getting worse before an adjuster gets there?
  • Does your policy reimburse you for staying in a hotel if your home is uninhabitable?
  • Regardless of your coverage, provide your agent with an accurate assessment of the damage and repairs needed.

Eliminate Future Leaks

If you have had a water leak, it is generally wise to have your plumbing inspected. It is highly recommended that you call a professional who can inspect your plumbing and make the needed repairs.