WATER DAMAGE CAUSES AND CONSEQUENCES
Water damage in buildings can originate by different sources such as construction defects, plumbing failures, damage from freezing, improper maintenance, etc.… If not quickly removed, this excess of moisture will trigger a destructive chain-reaction that includes structural deterioration and a rapid multiplication of toxic microorganisms creating potentially serious health issues for the building occupants.
AFTER A WATER DAMAGE EVENT
Determining the type of water that affected your property and the amount of time the structure remains abnormally wet are the two critical factors when assessing the potential damage. Therefore, when water loss or water intrusion occurs, the most important measure to take is to consult a Water Damage Restoration expert to assess the amount of potential damage on your property.
QUICK RESTORATIVE DRYING
Fast, professional, controlled, and selective restorative drying are the best measures to minimize potential damage on the affected (flooded) structure.


THE RISKS AND COST OF INACTION
Immediate Safety Risk
Water damaged structures must always be considered unsafe; thus, caution is critical to avoid potential physical harm. Wet electrical panels, for example, can pose a risk of electrical shock or oversaturated ceilings may pose a risk of collapsing. These two given scenarios could be a reason not to enter into water damaged area(s).
Water intrusion from the roof via an attic contaminated with bird or rodent fecal matter may cause serious contamination in the below affected structural levels, thus increasing exposure to harmful toxins and viruses to all occupants.

Mold as Secondary Damage
When water loss or water intrusion occurs, building materials and possessions are damaged by getting wet. This is called “primary damage,” and at this point the possibility of restoration and recovery is very high. However, as time passes after the water event, water starts to stagnate, and materials start to deteriorate creating ideal conditions for mold spores to germinate and reproduce. This is known as “secondary damage.”
The elements necessary to support mold growth are always present in your property; all that is required to initiate a disruptive chain-reaction of microbial growth is abundant water (excess of moisture.) Thus, mold-contamination is the most common type of “secondary damage” after unattended water damage event. In comparison with water damage restoration, mold remediation is a far more complex task, and consequently more expensive. IMPORTANT: NEVER IGNORE A PERSISTENT MUSTY SMELL; IT IS A STRONG INDICATOR FOR THE PRESENCE OF MOLD.

Indoor mold contamination may pose a health risk to all occupants and pets who live in the affected structure. In other words, after a water damage event you will be required to either pursue water damage restoration or mold remediation services.
Therefore, after a water damage event, always bring in a certified expert to evaluate the situation and make a correct diagnosis. This is your first and best line of defense.