Flood Victim's Advice

With all the false information on the internet, it is hard for flood victims to obtain accurate advice on what they can do after the disaster. We at NAMM have put together a sensible list of what needs to be done after a flood. Before returning to a flood damaged property, please read our SAFETY FIRST section.

• The property needs to be dried as quickly as possible. Mold needs a food source, a surface to grow on and moisture. Moisture is the only element we can control in the mold world and the quicker you can get your property dry the better off you will be.  Do not use heat to dry. Use water extraction units, high output fans, and dehumidifiers.


• If water from flooding has been standing for 24 hours or more, all floor coverings need to be removed and disposed of. Sheetrock needs to be removed one foot above any visible mold growth or water damage.


• If the property has a crawlspace, it will need to be dried out with the rest of the property. If the crawlspace is not dry before testing and mold starts to grow in the crawlspace, then the living space could be cross contaminated from the crawlspace mold. If the crawlspace has a moisture barrier in place, the barrier needs to be checked for misplacement and damage. If misplaced or ineffective because of the water, it will need to be corrected and fixed if possible. Otherwise, replace the barrier.


• If the property is on slab then the bottom plate will need to be checked to make sure it gets dry. Once the bottom plate board is dry, then the concrete has dried enough to start putting things back together once you have received clearance from the lab that it’s clean.


• Basements will need to be pumped out and dried. All water damaged sheetrock, floor coverings, porous items, and debris will need to be removed and disposed of.


• Once all flooring and sheetrock have been removed and the moisture level of the framing, sheathing, etc., has been reduced to 12%-14% moisture, then the property needs to be cleaned and bioremediated. The bioremediation process works best because it uses all natural products and they are safe for humans and the environment. After remediation is complete, testing must be done to determine if it is safe to start putting everything back. An independent lab must be used to analyze the samples.


• HVAC systems will need to be inspected, serviced, and cleaned. Bio-cleaning is recommended for HVAC systems because the enzymes will get the whole system clean. Once the system is clean then it needs to be turned on and running when the air samples are taken during the testing period. This is the only way you will know if the HVAC system is clean.


• If mold is visible and there is water damage the item will need to be disposed of. If you can get it dried out before it molds there is a good chance it can be saved. Just because it is in a moldy environment does not mean it has to be thrown out. Keepsakes can in most cases be saved. This includes photos, CD’s, DVD’s, electronics, TV, stereos, appliances etc. These items can be cleaned with the bio-remediation enzyme and saved.


• Do not throw away anything of value until you have had a bioremediator come and inspect your property. Many belongings that were once deemed contaminated because of mold can now be saved with the bioremediation process.


• Furniture that has gotten wet will need to be dried out. If it is covered with fabric or porous material and only part have gotten wet, there is a chance they can be saved if mold has not started to grow. All wood furniture that has not been severely damaged or water soaked might be saved.