You have informed your landlord and insurance company about the flooding you have experienced. Now it's time to proceed with the big cleanup after water damage. The extent of the task will naturally depend on the severity of the event. That being said, even a few centimeters of water can cause significant damage to your rented apartment.
After a significant leak or flood, you need to start by trying to save what can still be salvaged. In other words, remove your affected furniture, especially those made of wood. Some of them may have been irreparably damaged and will need to be thrown away, while some may be able to be revived after a drying period. Also, remove your electrical appliances and other items that are sensitive to humidity, such as clothing, papers, and curtains.
Once this initial emergency sorting is done, you need to empty the water from the affected room. Mopping up may sometimes be enough, but in the case of significant water damage, it may be necessary to use a pump to suck up the water that cannot be drained. Such a device can be rented, but you can ask for reimbursement or contribution from your landlord.
It is highly likely that your flooring coverings are irreparable. Carpets, parquet, PVC floors, carpets... after being exposed to water, only well-joined tiles can be preserved. In the case of significant water damage, you will also need to remove the wallpaper. If the leak comes from the upper floor, the false ceiling tiles and other polystyrene moldings will need to be dismantled. Replacing plasterboard walls may also be necessary.
Your apartment is now emptied of all items affected by water or humidity. It is now time to proceed with cleaning. Rainwater, and even more so, wastewater, carries microorganisms that can be dangerous to humans. Simple cleaning is therefore not enough. You need to scrub with disinfectants to make the property safe.
When an apartment has been flooded, drying may take several weeks before a new flooring covering can be laid, walls can be plastered and painted. Installing a dehumidifier can speed up the process.
You may also consider terminating your lease early. However, this procedure requires finding a replacement tenant, which will be difficult during the cleanup after water damage. So, to find a new apartment rental and terminate your lease early, it is better to wait for the property to be restored. You can then consult ads and publish yours for free on SherlockHomes.
This article cannot be exhaustive and does not engage the responsibility of its author.
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