FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Will My Homeowners Insurance Cover Water Damage?

Homeowners insurance provides coverage for damage that is sudden and accidental (such as a rupturing water heater or a pipe burst). With flood damage, regardless of the source of the water, it may not be covered by standard homeowners policies. FIRST CALL can assist you with your insurance claim and coverage options.

Is Water Damage an Emergency?

Yes. Water damage can be one of the most common and most serious emergencies your property can experience. Whether your home has been affected by a storm, flood, roof leak, HVAC leak, busted pipes, overflowing appliances or sewage backup, a water problem can easily distress and threaten you and your home’s safety as well as your property value.

How Bad is Water Damage to a House?

From mold to compromised frames and foundations, water damage can cause a range of serious, underlying issues.

How Quickly Can Mold Grow from Water Damage?

If not addressed immediately, mold and mildew begin growing within 24-48 hours after water damage.

How Long Does it Take for Water Damage to Show?

Sometimes you can see the damage immediately, but other times it takes hours or even days for the damage to become visible.  It’s important to act quickly and safely to ensure your home and your health aren’t in jeopardy from exposure.  FIRST CALL can easily help with this process.

Will Mold Die if it Dries Out?

Unfortunately, no.  Unless mold has been completely removed mold spores can remain dormant or inactive but can still be a threat to your home.  Mold removal can be done effectively with a professional who specializes in mold removal.

Does Water Damage Happen Immediately?

Water damage happens quickly, usually within 24 hours. If you notice any signs of water damage, it normally isn’t something you can fix on your own.

How long does it for water to dry up?

The drying process for homes affected by water damage can vary. Technically there’s not an precise estimation on how long the drying time would take. However, on average, a water damaged home may take around 5 days to dry. In other cases, it could take as little as two days, or in more serious situations, it may take a few weeks to fully dry out a home.

How long can furniture sit in water before being ruined?

Furniture should be dried out immediately after getting wet. If you leave it in the water for too long, it could start rotting. However, whether you can save wet furniture depends on the amount of water and the type of furniture. Water will cause composite furniture to fall apart much faster than hardwoods. The faster you can dry the air, the most likely you can salvage your furniture after a flood or water event.

How long does it take for water to damage foundation?

While the exact amount of time it takes for water to damage your foundation depends on a number of factors, such as the type of foundation you have and how much water is present, damage can occur quickly. In some cases, it may only take a few hours or days for water to cause significant damage to your foundation.

How long should you run fans after water damage?

Operating fans can improve air circulation and accelerate the drying process following water damage. It is recommended to run fans for a minimum of 24 hours after experiencing water damage.