Spring has officially sprung. Before May flowers can arrive, the showers must come. Excessive rainfall can cause problems for houses with poor construction or defects. Water intrusion can result in damage to your home’s structure, interior, and personal belongings. It can also lead to mold growth, which can cause health issues. If you experience water intrusion in your home, it’s essential to take swift action to prevent further damage and protect your health.
According to construction defects attorney at Freeman Law Firm, common defects that cause water intrusion include the following:
- Improper installation of exterior cladding, whether stucco, stone, stone or brick veneer, concrete, vinyl, aluminum, or wood siding
- Construction defects in the roofing system, whether shingle, tile, or ethylene propylene diene terpolymer membrane (EDPM)
- Defective, lacking, or improperly installed gutters and downspouts
- Improper installation of windows and doors defectively manufactured windows and doors, or windows and doors that are not appropriate for the climate
- Cracks in walls or foundation
- Improper slope or grading of the building lot causes water to accumulate in a basement or crawl space
Identify the Source of the Water Intrusion
The first step is to identify the source of the water intrusion. This may be due to a variety of factors, including a leaky roof, a damaged pipe, or a malfunctioning appliance. Once you’ve identified the source, it’s important to turn off the water supply to the affected area to prevent further water damage.
Remove Water and Dry the Affected Area
Once you’ve identified the source of the water intrusion and turned off the water supply, the next step is to remove any standing water and dry the affected area. You can use a wet-dry vacuum or a mop and towels to remove the water. If you have fans or a dehumidifier, turn them on to help dry the area. It’s essential to act quickly to prevent mold growth.
Document the Damage
Documenting the damage is crucial if you plan to file an insurance claim or take legal action. Take photos and videos of the affected area, including any damage to your personal belongings. Keep a record of any expenses related to the water intrusion, such as repair costs or temporary lodging expenses.
Contact Your Insurance Company
If you have homeowner’s insurance, contact your insurance company as soon as possible. Your insurance agent will guide you through the process of filing a claim and may be able to recommend a professional water damage restoration company to help you with the cleanup and repair process. Be sure to provide your insurance company with documentation of the damage.
Hire a Professional Water Damage Restoration Company
A professional water damage restoration company can help you with the cleanup and repair process. They have the expertise and equipment necessary to remove water, dry the affected area, and prevent mold growth. They can also repair any damage to your home’s structure and interior. Be sure to hire a reputable company that is licensed and insured.
Taking Legal Action
In some cases, legal action may be necessary if the water intrusion was caused by negligence on the part of a third party, such as a contractor or property owner. If you plan to take legal action, it’s essential to document the damage and keep records of any expenses related to the water intrusion. You may also want to hire an attorney who specializes in water intrusion cases.
Factors to Consider Before Filing A Claim
Statute of Limitations
The statute of limitations in Texas for property damage cases is two years, however, it varies from state to state. This means that you have two years from the date of the water intrusion to file a lawsuit. If you wait too long, you may lose your right to take legal action.
Evidence of Negligence
To win a water intrusion case, you must prove that the third party was negligent and that their negligence caused the water intrusion. This can be difficult to prove, and it’s essential to have evidence to support your claim.
