We know all about preparing for hurricane season. We know what supplies to get and what to do to prep our plumbing. But do we know what we can encounter AFTER a storm hits?
Safety First
After a hurricane, the most important thing is to ensure you and your family stay safe! If you’ve had to evacuate, remember that you may not have immediate access to your home if your area sustained damage.
If you are able to get back into your home and you notice flooding present, do not turn on the power. Instead, have a professional conduct a thorough inspection first. It’s also advised to have a professional plumber inspect your home’s plumbing, such as for gas leaks, etc.
Consider using a video camera to record any damage before repairs are done.
The flooding that the storm brings may also bring contaminated water. Assume that the water isn’t safe and use your properly stored water or boil your tap water if you must use it.
Major storms can cause shifts in the ground and this is where sewer lines are located. If issues occurred due to the storm to your sewer line, you’ll notice difficulty in flushing the toilet or water and debris backing up into your sink or tub.
Keep an eye out for water leaks. Storms can put the pipes in your plumbing under stress and cause them to burst or create leaks. Have your pipes inspected for cracks and leaks. If you suspect a slab leak, these types of leaks require immediate attention from a professional plumber.
You may also want to inspect your sump pump. This pump is what moves excess water away from your home’s foundation. Due to the intense amount of rain that a hurricane brings, you want to make sure the pump did its job and that it’s still working properly for the next storm.
There are many things to deal with after a hurricane hits your area. Make sure when it comes to dealing with post-hurricane issues, you hire professionals you can trust. Be sure to do your due diligence ahead of time in case you have to reach out to some professionals in your area.
We provide professional plumbing services for residential, commercial and industrial clients throughout Southern Florida. We provide fast response time, competitive rates, and reliable service. Need A Plumber? Schedule an appointment today and call us at 954-445-6443 or use our contact form.