Domestic flooding is a natural disaster that can cause significant damage to our lives and property. From rain flooding to burst pipes, there are a myriad of reasons why our home can be affected by water. When this happens, it's essential to take quick and effective action to minimize the damage and speed up the recovery process.

What are the reasons why a house can flood, and how can we prevent them?

1. Overflowing pipes:

Overflowing pipes, often caused by blockages or breaks, can lead to internal flooding.

It's advisable to check pipes regularly, avoid throwing away unsuitable objects and carry out preventive maintenance.

2. meteorological flooding:

Heavy rainfall can cause flooding in homes.

It is essential to keep drainage systems clean, consider installing flood barriers and ensure that water pumping systems are operational to prevent water from entering the home.

3. Urban drainage system failure:

Problems with urban drainage systems can lead to flooding, particularly in areas prone to water accumulation.

t's very important to keep sewers clean, participate in stormwater management programs and ensure that drainage systems are not obstructed.

4. Landslides :

On sloping ground, landslides can cause flooding.

The implementation of soil stabilization measures, such as the construction of retaining structures to prevent landslides and the planting of vegetation, is a good preventive measure.

Flood damage can have serious consequences for both property value and the health of family members.

What to do in the event of flooding

Here are the basic measures to consider:

Give priority to your personal safety: make sure you and your family are safe. If flooding is severe, leave your home and find temporary accommodation. Contaminated water can present health risks, so it's essential to avoid direct contact with it.

Removing water: it's essential to quickly remove water from flooded rooms to prevent further damage and mold growth. You can use water pumps, specialized vacuum cleaners or professional services to speed up the evacuation process. In addition, use efficient dehumidifiers to bring humidity levels below 50% and prevent mold growth.

Turn off the electricity: once you've turned off the water supply, it's a good idea to switch off all the electrical systems in the house. If you can't access the fuse box without coming into contact with the water, call an electrician immediately.

Remove damaged objects: Remove all furniture, carpets and personal items that have been touched by the water. This will facilitate cleaning and prevent the spread of mold and bacteria. If possible, air-dry these items.

Document the damage caused by the flood: take photos and videos of the affected areas, including the most damaged ones. This will be very useful for the compensation claim procedure.

In the event of flooding in a house, it's important to act quickly to minimize the damage. However, the costs can be very high, but by minimizing the problems from the outset, draining the water and using dehumidifiers for example, you'll save yourself from other, more intractable problems.