Stone Mountain After the Floods

The somewhat sleepy town of Stone Mountain just hasn’t been the same since recent flood waters caused mudslides that blocked traffic, created power outages and disrupted the normally peaceful rhythm of everyday in the local area. According to experts, rainfall is approaching a 100-year high in some areas; a typical measure used by insurance agents and climatologists alike to determine “high risk” areas and situations. The most recent weather forecast is calling for clearing skies leaving many to breathe a sigh of relief in the hope that the worst is over.
This once in a life-time event may be slowly subsiding as workers rush to the area to restore power and clean away debris from the Stone Mountain Freeway but others remain more pessimistic. Unfortunately, early insurance estimates show many homeowners are not covered by flood insurance leading many to speculate the worst is yet to come for many local residents.
As neighbors, friends and family begin the long process of picking up the pieces, experts remind everyone to take precautions when returning to flood damaged homes. It is a good idea to print out the following checklist to help prioritize clean-up and repair efforts:

1. Make sure all electricity and utilities are turned off in any areas still impacted by water damage.
2. Use protective gear including gloves and eye-goggles when dealing with water damaged property or possessions; remember, flood waters often contain chemicals, bacteria and organic debris that can lead to disease or infection.
3. Keep records and receipts plus take a lot of photographs. If you have flood insurance it is a good idea to contact your agent to begin the claim process as soon as possible. Even without flood insurance, you may be eligible for tax deductions or other forms of assistance plus it can help when it comes time to sell your home in the future. By providing complete documentation of what work was performed and to what standards, it may reduce the risk of lowering property appraisals due to fear of mold or mildew contamination related to water damage.
4. Contact Kiwi’s Stone Mountain water damage and flood damage repair professionals, provides a full guarantee on all repairs including water extraction, carpet and upholstery cleaning, air duct cleaning and restoration services. It is also important they are Certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration especially if you will be submitting an insurance claim.