Water Damage

The Ultimate Guide to Handling Apartment Flooding: Prevention, Response, and Recovery Apartment flooding is a nightmare scenario for any tenant or property manager. Unlike single-family homes, apartment units share walls, ceilings, and floors with neighbors, which means a flood can quickly escalate from a minor inconvenience to a full-blown disaster affecting multiple units. Whether caused by a burst pipe, a faulty appliance, or a natural disaster, flooding in an apartment complex requires immediate and decisive action. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about apartment flooding—from prevention to response and recovery—so you’re fully prepared to handle any situation. 1. Understanding the Causes of Apartment Flooding Before diving into prevention and response strategies, it’s crucial to understand the common causes of apartment flooding. This knowledge will help you identify potential risks and take proactive measures to mitigate them. Burst Pipes: One of the most common causes of flooding in apartments is a burst pipe. Pipes can burst due to freezing temperatures, old age, corrosion, or excessive water pressure. Faulty Appliances: Washing machines, dishwashers, and refrigerators with ice makers are frequent culprits of water damage. A malfunctioning appliance or a broken hose can lead to significant flooding. Clogged Drains: Clogged sinks, toilets, or bathtubs can overflow, especially if left unattended. Blockages can be caused by grease buildup, foreign objects, or hair accumulation. Natural Disasters: Heavy rain, hurricanes, and flash floods can overwhelm drainage systems, causing water to seep into apartments, especially on lower floors. Roof Leaks: In multi-story apartment buildings, a leaking roof can cause water to trickle down through ceilings and walls, affecting multiple units. Understanding these causes helps in taking preventive measures and ensures that residents and property managers are prepared to act quickly when flooding occurs. Preventive Measures to Reduce the Risk of Flooding Prevention is always better than cure, especially when it comes to water damage. Here are some proactive steps you can take to minimize the risk of flooding in an apartment setting: Regular Maintenance: Ensure regular inspection and maintenance of plumbing systems, appliances, and drainage systems. Property managers should schedule routine checks for leaks, corrosion, and blockages. Install Water Detection Devices: Water leak detectors can alert residents and property managers to leaks before they escalate. These devices are particularly useful in high-risk areas, such as under sinks, near appliances, and in basements. Educate Residents: Inform residents about the importance of not disposing of grease, food particles, or other debris down drains and toilets. Provide guidelines on what to do in case of a minor leak to prevent it from becoming a major issue. Seal Windows and Doors: Properly sealed windows and doors can prevent water from entering during heavy rain. Inspect seals regularly and replace them as needed. Elevate Appliances and Electrical Systems: In ground-floor apartments, consider elevating appliances and electrical systems to reduce the risk of water damage during a flood. Install Sump Pumps and Backflow Valves: In areas prone to flooding, sump pumps can help remove water that accumulates in basements. Backflow valves can prevent sewage from backing up into apartments during heavy rain or flooding events. By implementing these preventive measures, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of flooding and minimize the potential damage if flooding does occur. Immediate Response: What to Do When Flooding Occurs When an apartment floods, immediate action is crucial to minimize damage and ensure safety. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do if your apartment starts flooding: Ensure Safety First: Before attempting any cleanup, make sure the environment is safe. If water is coming into contact with electrical outlets or appliances, there is a risk of electrocution. Shut off the electricity at the main breaker if it is safe to do so. If not, evacuate the area and call emergency services. Stop the Water Source: If the flooding is caused by a burst pipe or a leaking appliance, locate the main water shutoff valve and turn it off to stop the flow of water. Every resident should know the location of their unit’s shutoff valve and how to use it. Contact Property Management: Inform the property manager or maintenance team immediately. They may have emergency protocols in place and can coordinate a faster response to mitigate damage. Document the Damage: Take photos and videos of the flooded areas and any damaged belongings. This documentation is crucial for insurance claims and for the property manager’s records. Remove Valuables and Personal Items: If it is safe to do so, move valuables, electronics, and important documents to a dry area. This can help prevent further damage and reduce the risk of losing irreplaceable items. Start Water Removal: Begin removing standing water as quickly as possible using mops, buckets, or a wet/dry vacuum. The faster you remove the water, the less damage will occur. If the flooding is extensive, contact a professional water damage restoration company. Recovery: Steps to Take After the Flood Once the immediate threat has passed and the water is removed, the recovery process begins. Here are the steps to take to ensure a thorough recovery and prevent future issues: Dry Out the Affected Area: Use fans, dehumidifiers, and open windows to dry out the area. It’s important to dry everything thoroughly to prevent mold growth. Mold can begin to develop within 24 to 48 hours after a flood, so speed is essential. Inspect for Mold: Even after drying, mold can still grow in hidden areas like behind walls or under carpets. Conduct a thorough inspection for any signs of mold or mildew. If you notice a musty smell or visible mold, consider hiring a professional mold remediation company to assess and address the issue. Dispose of Contaminated Items: Items that have been soaked in floodwater, such as carpets, mattresses, and upholstered furniture, may need to be discarded. Floodwater can contain harmful bacteria and chemicals that pose a health risk. Clean and Disinfect: Clean all affected areas with a bleach solution or other disinfectants to kill any bacteria or pathogens. This step is

EMERGENCY RESPONSE TO WATER DAMAGE What to Do in the First 24 Hours After Water Damage When water invades your home, time is of the essence. The actions you take within the first 24 hours after water damage can be the difference between a minor inconvenience and a major disaster. Water damage isn’t just a cosmetic issue; it can lead to structural instability, mold growth, and serious health risks. Knowing what to do immediately can save you thousands of dollars and prevent long-term damage. Step 1: Ensure Safety First Before you do anything else, prioritize safety. Water and electricity can be a deadly combination. If it’s safe to do so, turn off the electricity at the main circuit breaker to prevent electrical hazards. If the water is coming from a burst pipe, locate the water main and shut it off immediately to stop the flow of water. If the water damage is due to flooding from outside, avoid contact with the water as it could be contaminated with sewage or other hazardous substances. In such cases, it’s best to evacuate and call a professional to assess the situation. Step 2: Document the Damage for Insurance Once it’s safe, your next step should be documenting the damage. This is crucial for insurance purposes. Take photos and videos of all affected areas, including any damaged belongings. Make sure to capture the extent of the damage, as this will be important when filing a claim with your insurance company. Step 3: Contact Your Insurance Company After documenting the damage, contact your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with the evidence you’ve gathered and follow their instructions for filing a claim. Some insurance policies require you to report damage within a specific timeframe, so don’t delay. Step 4: Start Water Removal and Drying Time is of the essence when it comes to water damage. The longer water sits, the more damage it can cause. Start by removing as much water as possible using pumps, wet vacuums, or even buckets if necessary. If the water damage is extensive, consider hiring a professional water damage restoration company to handle the removal and drying process. Once the standing water is removed, use fans, dehumidifiers, and open windows to dry out the area. This will help prevent mold growth, which can start within 24 to 48 hours after water exposure. Step 5: Clean and Disinfect the Area After the area is dry, it’s important to clean and disinfect all affected surfaces. This is especially important if the water was contaminated. Use a bleach solution or other disinfectants to kill any bacteria or mold spores that may have started to grow. Step 6: Monitor for Mold Growth Even after thorough drying and cleaning, mold can still develop. Keep an eye on the affected area over the next few days and weeks. Look for any signs of mold, such as a musty smell or visible growth. If you notice mold, address it immediately by cleaning it with a mold-specific cleaner or by hiring a professional. Step 7: Begin Restoration and Repairs Once the area is dry and free from mold, you can start the restoration process. Depending on the extent of the damage, this may involve replacing drywall, flooring, or insulation. Again, if the damage is extensive, it’s best to hire a professional restoration company. Taking the right steps in the first 24 hours after water damage can make a significant difference in the recovery process. By acting quickly and efficiently, you can minimize damage, reduce health risks, and save money in the long run.

Home insurance may cover water damage, but it depends on the policy and the source of the damage. Policies often exclude flood damage. Home insurance can be a lifesaver when unexpected damage occurs in your home. Water damage is one of the most common issues homeowners face. Understanding what your insurance policy covers is crucial. Typically, standard policies cover water damage from sudden incidents like burst pipes. However, they usually exclude damage from floods or poor maintenance. Always review your policy details and speak with your insurance agent. Knowing what is covered can save you time, money, and stress. If you face water damage, companies like Sos Cleaning & Restoration can help with professional services. Be proactive and ensure your home is adequately protected. What Is Home Insurance Home insurance helps protect your house. It covers damages to your home. It also covers personal property inside your home. Home insurance can be a lifesaver during unexpected events. Types Of Water Damage Covered Home insurance covers some water damage. Burst pipes and accidental leaks are usually covered. Storm damage and overflowing appliances may also be covered. Always check your policy to be sure. Types Of Water Damage Not Covered Not all water damage is covered. Flood damage is usually not included. Sewer backup is often excluded too. Poor maintenance can lead to denied claims. Always maintain your home to avoid issues. Filing a claim is simple. First, document the damage with photos. Contact your insurance company right away. Fill out the claim forms they provide. An adjuster will inspect the damage. Wait for the insurance company to process your claim. Check pipes regularly. Fix leaks immediately. Install water alarms. Keep gutters clean. Maintain appliances. Benefits Of Professional Restoration Services Professional Restoration Services can quickly fix the damage. They have special tools and knowledge. This can save you time and money. They also help prevent mold growth and other issues. Always consider professional help for serious damage. Types Of Home Insurance Water damage can cause significant issues for homeowners. It’s crucial to understand if your home insurance covers such incidents. Different types of home insurance policies offer various levels of coverage. Let’s explore these policies to see what they cover. Ho-1 HO-1 is a basic home insurance policy. It covers a limited number of perils. These include fire, lightning, and windstorms. It may not cover water damage. This type of policy is rare today. Most homeowners choose more comprehensive options. Fire or Lightning Windstorm or Hail Explosion Riot or Civil Commotion Damage from Aircraft Damage from Vehicles Smoke Vandalism Theft Ho-2 HO-2 is a broader policy. It covers more perils than HO-1. Water damage from specific sources may be included. This policy still has limitations. It might not cover all types of water damage. Covered Perils Falling Objects Weight of Ice, Snow, or Sleet Accidental Discharge or Overflow of Water Tearing Apart, Cracking, Burning, or Bulging Freezing of Household Systems Ho-3 HO-3 is the most common policy. It offers broader coverage. Most perils are covered unless specifically excluded. Water damage is generally covered unless caused by neglect. This policy is suitable for most homeowners. Open Perils Coverage Excludes Floods Excludes Earthquakes May Exclude Poor Maintenance Ho-4 HO-4 is for renters. It covers personal belongings and liability. The structure is not covered. Water damage to belongings is covered. Renters should still check their policy details. Personal Belongings Coverage Liability Protection Doesn’t Cover Building Structure Water Damage to Belongings Covered Ho-5 HO-5 is a premium policy. It offers the most comprehensive coverage. It covers all perils unless excluded. Water damage from various sources is covered. This policy is ideal for high-value homes. All-Risk Coverage Fewer Exclusions Higher Coverage Limits Comprehensive Water Damage Protection Ho-6 HO-6 is for condo owners. It covers personal belongings and interior structures. Water damage inside the unit is covered. The condo association covers exterior damage. It’s important to check what the association policy includes. Personal Property Coverage Interior Structure Coverage Water Damage Inside Unit Covered Exterior Damage Covered by Condo Association Ho-7 HO-7 is for mobile homes. It offers similar coverage to HO-3. Water damage is generally covered. This policy is tailored for mobile or manufactured homes. Homeowners should ensure their specific needs are met. Similar to HO-3 Water Damage Generally Covered Tailored for Mobile Homes Ensures Specific Needs are Met Water Damage Coverage Water damage can cause severe problems in homes. Home insurance is vital for covering these damages. Many people ask if home insurance covers water damage. SOS Cleaning & Restoration offers insights on this topic. Let’s explore what is covered, what is not covered, and the limitations and exclusions of water damage coverage. What Is Covered? Home insurance often covers sudden and accidental water damage. This means you are protected from unexpected events. Here are some scenarios that are usually covered: Burst pipes: If a pipe bursts, your insurance should cover the damage. Overflowing sinks: Sudden overflows from sinks or tubs may be included. Roof leaks: Damage from a leaking roof caused by a storm can be covered. Water heater bursts: If your water heater bursts unexpectedly, insurance can help. Important: Always check your specific policy details. Coverage can vary by insurer and policy type. Documentation of the damage is crucial. Take photos and keep receipts for repairs. This will help in processing your claim smoothly. What Is Not Covered? Not all water damage is covered by home insurance. Gradual damage is often excluded. Here are some examples of what is usually not covered: Poor maintenance: Damage due to lack of upkeep is not covered. Mold and mildew: Growth from long-term water exposure is excluded. Flooding: Standard policies do not cover flood damage. Separate flood insurance is needed. Sewer backups: Damage from sewer backups usually requires additional coverage. Clarify with your insurance provider what is excluded. This will help you avoid surprises. Preventative measures are essential. Regular maintenance can prevent many types of damage. Limitations And Exclusions Home insurance comes with limitations and exclusions. Policy limits

Do I have Water Damage in my home? As a water restoration company, serving the Rochester area of New York for over 20 years, we want to shed some light on how professionals conduct water damage inspections in homes and businesses. When it comes to water damage restoration, a comprehensive assessment is essential to determine the extent of the damage and create an effective restoration plan. Let’s take a closer look at how Our Restoration Technicians here at Jet Dry assess water damage and what steps they will take to restore your home. 1. Initial Inspection: The Inspection process begins with an initial inspection of the affected areas. We evaluate the visible signs of water damage, such as water stains, discoloration, dampness, and pooling water. We also check for any obvious sources of water intrusion, such as leaking pipes, roof leaks, or malfunctioning appliances. This inspection helps identify the primary, and potential secondary, causes of the water damage. 2. Moisture Detection: Here at Jet Dry, we utilize specialized moisture detection tools to measure the moisture levels in various materials, including walls, floors, and ceilings. These tools, such as moisture meters and infrared cameras, help identify hidden pockets of moisture that may not be visible to the naked eye. By accurately detecting moisture, We can assess the extent of the damage and create a plan to address the damage and restore your home or business to its original state. 3. Categorization of Water Damage: Water damage is categorized into three types based on the level of contamination: Category 1: Clean Water – This refers to water damage caused by clean water sources like broken pipes or overflowing sinks. It poses the least risk to human health, but still a great risk to damage of the property itself. Category 2: Grey Water – Grey water contains contaminants that may cause illness if ingested. This includes water from dishwashers, washing machines, or sump pump failures. Category 3: Black Water – Black water is highly contaminated and may contain sewage, bacteria, and other extremely hazardous substances. It comes from sources like sewage backups, flooding, or standing water. Our Restoration Technicians assess the category of water damage to determine the appropriate safety measures and restoration methods needed. 4. Damage Mapping: Our Restoration Technicians will create a detailed damage map, documenting the affected areas and the extent of the damage. This map acts as a reference point through the whole restoration process and helps in developing a plan for effective restoration. 5. Structural Integrity Evaluation: Water damage can compromise the structural integrity of your home. Our Restoration Technicians will assess the structural components affected by water, such as walls, floors, and ceilings, to identify any signs of structural damage or weakening. This assessment will  help determine whether any repairs or reinforcements are necessary to ensure the safety and stability of your home or business. 6. Mold Inspection: Water damage creates an ideal environment for mold growth. Our Restoration Technicians will conduct a thorough mold inspection to identify any existing mold growth or the potential for future mold development. They look for visible mold, check moisture levels, and take air samples for laboratory analysis if necessary. This part of the inspection helps determine if mold remediation is needed as part of the restoration process. 7. Documentation: Throughout the assessment, Our Restoration Technicians document all findings, including photographs, measurements, and detailed notes. This serves multiple purposes, such as insurance claims, communication with homeowners, and tracking the progress of the restoration. 8. Restoration Plan: Based on the assessment findings, Our Restoration Technicians will develop a comprehensive restoration plan tailored to the specific needs of your home or business. This plan will outline the necessary steps, timelines, and techniques needed to restore your property to its pre-damage condition and it may include any of the following: water extraction, drying, dehumidification, structural repairs, mold remediation, and content restoration. Our Restoration Technicians assess the water damage by conducting initial inspections, detecting moisture, categorizing the damage, mapping the affected areas, evaluating structural integrity, inspecting for mold, and documenting their findings. This process allows them to develop a customized restoration plan that addresses the unique needs of your home or business. So if you’re facing water damage in your home or business, don’t hesitate to contact Our Restoration Technicians here at Jet Dry. We have the expertise, tools, and resources to assess the damage accurately, develop a comprehensive restoration plan, and target the job done. Reach out today for a free consultation and let us be your trusted partner in restoring your home or business to its old glory.

Why you need a Water Damage Restoration Company As a water restoration company, serving the Rochester area of New York for over 20 years, we understand the importance of timely water damage restoration. Water damage can happen due to a number of reasons such as floods, burst pipes, leaking roofs, or plumbing issues. Regardless of the cause, acting immediately is crucial to minimize the damage and ensure a swift recovery. So let’s dive into why timely restoration is of utmost importance. 1. Prevents Structural Damage: Water has a habit of finding its way into every nook and cranny of your property. Left unaddressed, water can seep into walls, floors, and ceilings, leading to structural damage. It will weaken the foundation, cause wood to rot, and compromise the integrity of your building. Timely restoration helps prevent further deterioration, preserves the structural integrity, and saves you from expensive repairs in the future. 2. Mitigates Mold Growth: One of the highest risks associated with water damage is the growth of mold. Once mold spores are present in the air, and they come into contact with moisture, they can start multiplying rapidly. Within 24 to 48 hours, mold can explode in rapid growth, taking over your property, causing not only structural damage, but also health issues. Mold can trigger allergies, respiratory problems, and even infections. By tackling your water damage immediately, you can remove excess moisture, dry out affected areas, and significantly reduce the risk of mold growth, if not eliminate it completely. 3. Preserves Belongings and Personal Items: Water damage can and will wreak havoc on your personal belongings, sentimental items, and important documents if left unchecked. The longer water sits, the more damage it can cause to furniture, electronics, photographs, and other cherished possessions. Timely restoration increases the chances of salvaging and restoring your belongings, minimizing the potential loss and sentimental impact of losing those things you hold dear. 4. Reduces Costs: Water damage will quickly escalate if left untreated. What might start as a minor issue, can rapidly turn into a major disaster, causing extensive repairs and renovations. By acting immediately, you can mitigate the damage and reduce overall costs associated with the restoration process. Timely restoration focuses on drying and restoring the damaged areas, rather than having to replace them entirely, saving you money in the long run. 5. Promotes a Healthy Environment: Excess moisture from water damage creates an horribly ideal breeding ground for bacteria, mold, and other harmful microorganisms. These will pose serious health risks to the occupants of your property, whether it be your loved ones at home, or your clients and employees at work. Prompt restoration helps create a healthy living or working environment by removing excess moisture, preventing the growth of mold and bacteria, and improving indoor air quality. We here at Jet Dry want you to understand that acting as quickly as possible to start the water damage restoration process is. It’s crucial for preventing structural damage, mitigating mold growth, preserving your belongings, reducing costs, and creating a healthy environment once again. If you’re facing water damage, don’t delay in reaching out to us here at Jet Dry. We have the expertise, equipment, and resources to swiftly assess the damage, extract standing water, dry and dehumidify the affected areas, and restore your property to its healthy pre-damage condition. So if you’ve experienced water damage, don’t wait another minute! Contact our experienced team of restoration technicians here at Jet Dry today. We’re here to help you navigate through the restoration process and ensure a timely recovery. Reach out now for a free consultation and let us restore your property to its former glory.

Common Causes of Water Damage in Homes As a water restoration company, serving the Rochester area of New York for over 20 years, we understand the causes of water damage in homes and the importance of addressing them immediately. Water damage can be a real problem for homeowners, leading to structural issues, mold growth, and costly repairs. Let’s look closer at some of the most common causes of water damage and how you can prevent them. 1. Plumbing Issues: Faulty plumbing systems are the #1 cause of water damage in homes. Leaky pipes, burst pipes, and pipe joint failures can result in significant water leakage. These problems can be caused by age, corrosion, high water pressure, or improper installation. Regular inspections, maintenance, and timely repairs can and will  help prevent plumbing-related water damage. 2. Roof Leaks: A damaged or improperly installed roof can allow water to seep into your home, causing water damage and potential mold growth. Missing or damaged shingles, cracked flashing, or clogged gutters can all contribute to roof leaks that can affect your attics, ceiling or even your walls. Regular roof inspections, repairs, and proper gutter maintenance can help prevent water damage caused by roof leaks. 3. Appliance Malfunctions: Home appliances such as washing machines, dishwashers, refrigerators, and water heaters can malfunction, leading to water damage. Leaky hoses, damaged seals, or faulty connections can cause water to leak onto the floor or into adjacent areas and if on upper floors, can damage the areas below. Regular maintenance, inspections, and timely repairs or replacements of malfunctioning appliances can help prevent water damage. 4. Basement Flooding: Basement flooding can occur due to heavy rain, melting snow, faulty appliances such as washing machines, or poor drainage systems. Cracks in the foundation, improper grading, or malfunctioning sump pumps can also cause  basement flooding. Installing proper drainage systems, maintaining sump pumps, and sealing foundation cracks can help to eliminate water damage in basements. 5. Natural Disasters: Natural disasters such as hurricanes, floods, or storms can cause tremendous amounts of water damage to homes. These events are beyond our control, but taking preventive measures such as installing flood barriers, sealing windows and doors, and ensuring proper drainage can help minimize damage.  6. HVAC System Issues: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems can also be a potential source of water damage. Clogged or malfunctioning condensate lines, leaking pipes, and/or faulty equipment can lead to water leakage and damage to ceilings, walls, or floors. Especially since most of the pipes and lines associated with these systems are hidden in walls, ceilings, etc. Regular maintenance, inspections, and prompt repairs can help prevent HVAC-related water damage. Preventing Water Damage: While some causes of water damage may be unavoidable, there are some steps you can take to minimize the risk: 1. Regular Maintenance: Schedule regular inspections of your plumbing, roof, appliances, and HVAC system to identify and address any potential issues before they become an expensive problem. 2. Proper Drainage: Ensure your property has proper drainage systems in place, including gutters, downspouts, and grading, to direct water away from your home. And therefore away from your foundation and basement. 3. Sump Pump Maintenance: If you have a sump pump, make sure it is in proper working condition and consider installing a battery backup system to prevent basement flooding during power outages. Which is common during storms. 3. Monitor Water Usage: Be mindful of your water usage and keep an eye out for any sudden increases, which may indicate a leak or plumbing issue. A good way to check this is really paying attention to your water bill and knowing if you have used more than you normally do in a given period of time. 4. Insulate Pipes: Protect your pipes from freezing during colder months by insulating them properly. Making sure your HVAC lines are insulated properly. If you have a duct running through a warm space, it needs to be insulated to avoid condensation forming. Install Leak Detection Systems: Consider installing leak detection systems or smart home devices that can alert you to potential water leaks or abnormal water usage. Due to advancements in technology and the IoT(Internet of Things), there are loads of smart devices that can connect right to your phone, allowing you to keep tabs on your home even  when away on vacation. By understanding the common causes of water damage and taking the correct measures, you can reduce the risk of water damage in your home or business. But, life can throw you a curve ball. So in the event that water damage does occur in your home or business, it’s essential to act swiftly and immediately and contact us here at Jet Dry. Our experienced team can assess the damage, extract standing water, dry and dehumidify the affected areas, and restore your home or business to its old glory. Protect your home from water damage by taking preventative measures and addressing any issues immediately. If you’re facing water damage, don’t hesitate to reach out to our restoration technicians here at Jet Dry. We’re here to help you navigate through the restoration process and restore your home to its beautiful, healthy self. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us be your trusted partner in water damage restoration.

What is Irreplaceable If There is Flood or Water Damage? When you apply for renter’s insurance (because you need to be prepared for water damage if you are a renter) or homeowner’s insurance you may see the term “irreplaceable items” on the policy.  You might also see advice given on how to protect your “irreplaceable items” in case of a flood or water damage.  What are these items and what does this phrase include. Papers and Personal Items In many cases, your irreplaceable items include personal items and papers such as family photos and albums, personal items of jewelry, and other items that you cannot simply replace at the store.  Your family pictures cannot be replaced and many jewelry items are personal, as are family keepsakes such as your grandparents’ marriage certificate and other such heirlooms.  Keepsakes and gifts are also often considered irreplaceable. Assets Very valuable assets are often considered irreplaceable if they’re unique and original.  For example, artwork including paintings, portraits, ceramics, and other valuable items cannot be replaced since they’re one-of-a-kind.  Antiques are also irreplaceable since they too are original and not mass produced.  In some cases very valuable cars could be considered irreplaceable, if they’re vintage or antique models.  These types of items should be considered when you write up an insurance policy since you want to have their full value covered. What’s Not Included When considering what is irreplaceable, you can often easily distinguish these pieces by considering what’s not included.  For example, you may not be able to find the same exact pieces of clothing as you have in your closet but you can replace them with comparable items.  You can do the same for your furniture, mass produced artwork and accessories, appliances, and electronics. Remember that “irreplaceable” doesn’t mean that you cannot get the same brand and model; it means that you couldn’t find something very similar to the item at a retail store, or that it is unique for some reason. This also applies to other paperwork that can be replaced.  For example, you probably cannot get a new copy of your grandparents’ marriage certificate, but you can easily replace yours if it’s lost or damaged in a flood.  Your diploma is very important to you but it too can be replaced.  These types of papers are not considered irreplaceable. If you’re applying for insurance then talk to your agent about what should and should not be included in your policy when it comes to your irreplaceable items.

What to Do About Flood Water Damage in an Apartment, as a Renter in Rochester, NY? If you’re renting an apartment and it becomes flooded for any reason, what should you do and what are your rights in this case?  It’s vital to understand this so you can prepare yourself ahead of time when you rent and so you can ensure your rights are protected if this happens to you.  Flood water damage is no joke, so you need be prepared. Renter’s Insurance Each renter’s insurance policy is different but most don’t cover floods, especially not those that are caused by nature.  Check your policy carefully; if it does cover floods, it may be for the value of certain items only and may have a limit as to the coverage.  As with your car insurance you might also have a deductible that you first pay before the renter’s insurance kicks in to cover the rest. Landlord’s Responsibility When you rent an apartment the landlord has the responsibility to pay for all repairs due to flooding, including the walls, floors, doors, and mold removal as well as carpet cleaning.  He or she needs to repair and clean the apartment so that it is livable; they are not necessarily obligated to replace the carpet and doors if they can be reasonably cleaned and repaired. Your landlord is also not typically responsible to pay for the replacement of your personal belongings unless the flood is directly caused by their negligence.  Typical breakdown of appliances and leaks are their responsibility to fix but do not make them liable for your own property.  This is why renter’s insurance is often recommended, so that you can easily replace your items. It’s important to understand that as a renter, you should not attempt to make repairs to an apartment yourself, before or after a flood, as any damage you cause could then become your responsibility.  The landlord must make repairs inside and out as needed and according to your lease when you are renting. Moving Out In most cases, if the apartment is unlivable after a flood you can move out and don’t owe the landlord rent until it is repaired again.  The landlord is not typically responsible for your moving and housing costs during this time. It’s important to know that these laws vary from state to state and there are many details about these laws that could affect your case in particular.  Consult an attorney if you’re concerned about flood damage to your belongings or apartment.