Tag Archive for: water damage

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Why Professional Drying Is Essential After Water Damage

After a leak, flood, or escape of water, it is natural to think that opening windows, turning up the heating, and waiting will eventually dry the property.

It might look like it is working.

The carpets may feel dry. The walls may look normal. The obvious water may have disappeared.

Unfortunately, that does not always mean the problem has gone.

Water can remain hidden beneath floors, behind walls, inside insulation, and within the structure itself. Without proper drying, this trapped moisture can continue causing damage long after the original incident.

According to Geoff Hayman, restoration expert at ServiceMaster Restore Worcester, this is one of the biggest misunderstandings after water damage.

“People often think that if they can’t see water anymore, the property is dry. The reality is that moisture can remain hidden for weeks or even months. That’s when secondary damage starts to become a real problem.”

Why Natural Drying Is Not Always Enough

Natural drying relies on open windows, airflow, warmth, and time. While this method may help with surface moisture, it does not create the controlled conditions necessary for effectively drying a building.

In the UK, this challenge is amplified by frequently changing weather conditions. High humidity levels can slow down the drying process, and in some cases, opening windows can introduce even more moisture into the property.

“Properly drying a building requires control,” explains Geoff. “You need to achieve the right balance of temperature, airflow, and moisture removal. Relying on the weather means leaving much to chance.”

How Professional Drying Works

Professional drying is a controlled process.

Specialist equipment is used to quickly and safely remove moisture from affected materials.

This can include:

  • Air movers to increase airflow across surfaces
  • Dehumidifiers to remove moisture from the air
  • Moisture monitoring equipment to track progress
  • Specialist drying systems for trapped water within floors and walls

It is not simply about making a room warmer. The aim is to create the right environment for moisture to leave the structure.

Heat alone is not enough to properly dry a property. Moisture needs to be drawn out of affected materials and removed from the environment. Without the right drying process, moisture can remain trapped or move into other areas of the property.

Professional Drying Reduces Recovery Time

One of the biggest advantages of professional drying is its speed. Building materials can take a long time to dry naturally; for instance, some floor screeds might take weeks or even months to reach acceptable moisture levels without assistance. During this prolonged drying period, repairs can be delayed.

For homeowners, this means longer disruptions. For businesses, it can lead to extended downtime and lost revenue.

The quicker a property is properly dried, the sooner the restoration process can continue. Decoration, repairs, and returning people safely to the building all depend on achieving the correct moisture levels.

Preventing Secondary Damage

The first water incident is often only part of the problem.

The damage that follows can sometimes be worse.

When moisture remains trapped, it can lead to:

  • Mould growth
  • Damaged plaster
  • Warped timber
  • Flooring failure
  • Odours
  • Deterioration of building materials

Mould can begin developing within 24 to 48 hours when conditions allow, so early action matters.

Secondary damage is one of the main risks after water damage. A small incident can quickly become a much larger restoration project if moisture remains trapped inside the property.

Finding the Moisture You Cannot See

One of the biggest challenges following water damage is determining the path of the water. Water tends to move along the easiest route, which can include travelling under flooring, into wall cavities, and through various materials without leaving obvious signs of its presence.

Professional restoration teams utilise specialised equipment to detect moisture levels and pinpoint affected areas. This approach allows for targeted drying instead of unnecessary removal and replacement of materials.

“Guesswork is expensive,” says Geoff. “It’s crucial to understand precisely where the moisture is and how the building is responding.”

Why Professional Drying Can Reduce Overall Costs

Professional drying may seem like an additional step, but it can significantly reduce the overall cost of restoration.

Removing moisture early can prevent unnecessary material replacement and reduce long-term damage.

Leaving a property to dry naturally may seem cheaper at first, but if mould develops or structural materials fail, the final cost can be much higher.

“The aim is always to restore where possible,” says Geoff. “Controlled drying gives us the best chance of protecting the property and reducing unnecessary disruption.”

How ServiceMaster Restore Can Help

When water damage affects your home or business, drying needs to start quickly.

ServiceMaster Restore provides professional drying and water damage restoration services across the UK. Our teams use specialist equipment, proven drying methods, and ongoing monitoring to remove moisture safely and effectively.

We work with homeowners, businesses, insurers, brokers, and loss adjustors to reduce disruption and restore properties as quickly as possible.

If your property has suffered water damage, call 0800 021 3970 or find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business today.

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Standing with Worcester, On and Off the Pitch

Standing with Worcester, On and Off the Pitch

Cricket season is in full swing at New Road, and ServiceMaster Restore Worcester is proud to continue supporting Worcestershire County Cricket Club as a club partner.

It is a partnership that feels particularly relevant here in Worcester. New Road sits beside the River Severn and has faced serious flooding over the years. Many homes and businesses across Worcester, Malvern, Droitwich, Pershore, Evesham and the surrounding areas understand how quickly heavy rain and rising water can cause disruption.

A busy summer at New Road

Worcestershire recently secured a memorable five-wicket County Championship victory over Gloucestershire at New Road. The summer schedule now continues with Vitality Blast and One Day Cup fixtures, bringing supporters and businesses into the city throughout June and July.

As a local business, we are pleased to play a small part in supporting the club and the wider Worcestershire community during another busy season.

Local flood damage support in Worcester

Floodwater can damage flooring, walls, furniture and personal belongings within hours. Even after the visible water has gone, trapped moisture can lead to odours, mould and further property damage.

ServiceMaster Restore Worcester provides professional flood damage restoration for homes and businesses across Worcestershire. Our local team can help with:

  • Emergency water extraction
  • Structural drying and moisture checks
  • Flood-damaged carpet and flooring restoration
  • Cleaning and sanitisation
  • Mould and odour treatment
  • Support for domestic and commercial properties

Here when Worcester needs us

Our sponsorship of Worcestershire County Cricket Club reflects our commitment to the area we serve. Whether we are supporting the team at New Road or helping a local property recover after flooding, we are proud to stand alongside the Worcester community.

For help following flooding, water damage, fire or another property emergency, contact ServiceMaster Restore Worcester on: 0800 021 3115 or enquire online: https://servicemasterrestore.co.uk/worcester/.  With no call out charges in and around Worcester and same day response- let us be your first port of call when disaster strikes!

Why Summer Is Peak Season for Water Damage Claims

Most people associate water damage with winter. Frozen pipes, heavy rain, and storms tend to attract attention.

Yet many property owners are surprised to learn that summer can be one of the busiest times of year for water damage claims.

The causes differ, but the results are often the same. Damaged floors, stained ceilings, mould growth, and expensive repairs.

Understanding the risks can help you spot problems early and reduce the likelihood of serious damage.

Why Does Summer Water Damage Happen?

Summer brings a unique set of conditions that increase the risk of water damage.

Properties are often left empty while people go on holiday. Sudden thunderstorms become more common. Plumbing issues can go unnoticed for longer periods.

Unlike in winter, when damage often develops due to freezing temperatures, summer water damage frequently results from problems that are simply not discovered quickly enough.

Empty Properties Mean Delayed Discovery

One of the main causes of summer water damage is absence from home.

A small leak under a sink might seem minor initially, but if no one is there for a week or two, it can turn into a major issue.

When someone returns, water could have soaked into the flooring, walls, and furniture. This is why insurance claims often rise during holiday seasons.

Summer Storms Can Cause Significant Damage

The UK has seen more episodes of intense rainfall and localised flooding in recent years.

Summer storms often arrive suddenly and bring:

  • Heavy rainfall
  • Strong winds
  • Flash flooding
  • Roof damage

Water can enter properties through damaged roofs, blocked gutters, and poorly maintained drainage systems.

Many homeowners do not realise there is a problem until damp patches or stains appear days later.

Air Conditioning and Cooling Systems

Commercial properties often rely on air-conditioning systems throughout the summer months.

If these systems are not properly maintained, they can develop leaks or condensation.

Over time, moisture can damage ceilings, walls, and flooring without being immediately visible.

This is a common cause of summer water damage in offices, retail units, and commercial buildings.

Outdoor Plumbing Problems

Summer often brings increased use of outdoor taps, irrigation systems, and garden equipment.

Damaged hoses, leaking connections, and faulty outdoor plumbing can all cause water to escape where it should not.

Because these areas are outside, problems are sometimes overlooked until significant damage has occurred.

The Hidden Risk of Warm Weather

Many people assume that warm weather helps prevent water damage.

In reality, it can sometimes mask it.

Moisture evaporates more quickly from surfaces, making areas appear dry even when water remains trapped underneath.

This creates ideal conditions for mould growth and hidden structural damage.

By the time visible signs appear, the issue may already be widespread.

Signs of Summer Water Damage

Look out for:

  • Damp smells
  • Water stains on ceilings
  • Peeling paint
  • Bubbling plaster
  • Warped flooring
  • Unexplained mould growth

These signs often indicate the presence of moisture somewhere in the property.

The sooner the source is identified, the easier it is to resolve.

How to Reduce the Risk

Simple preventive measures can make a big difference.

Before going away:

  • Turn off the water supply if possible
  • Check for existing leaks
  • Ask someone to inspect the property
  • Clear gutters and drains
  • Inspect roofs and external areas

For commercial properties, regular maintenance of air-conditioning and plumbing systems is equally important.

Why Quick Action Matters

Water damage spreads quickly.

What starts as a minor leak can affect multiple rooms in a short time. The longer moisture remains, the greater the risk of mould, structural damage, and costly repairs.

Acting quickly helps limit both disruption and expense.

How ServiceMaster Restore Can Help

ServiceMaster Restore provides professional water damage cleaning and restoration across the UK.

Our teams respond promptly to identify the source of the problem, carry out specialist drying, and restore affected areas before secondary damage occurs.

We also work with insurers and loss adjustors to help make the claims process as smooth as possible.

If your property has suffered water damage, call 0800 021 3970 or find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business today.

Restoring Customer-Facing Spaces After Fire or Flood Damage

Restoring customer-facing spaces after fire or flood damage is our speciality. It’s not just about fixing the problem. It’s about how quickly you can reopen, how the space looks, and what customers see when they return.

Fire or flood damage rarely remains isolated. Water spreads, smoke lingers, and surfaces can become stained. Even if the visible damage appears limited, its impact on appearance and safety can be broader than anticipated.

Why First Impressions Matter More After Damage

Customers notice changes right away. A lingering odour, a stained ceiling, or damaged flooring can diminish trust. Even minor signs of damage can raise concerns about safety and standards.

In retail, hospitality, and healthcare environments, presentation is directly linked to customer confidence.

The Challenges of Restoring Public Spaces

Restoring customer-facing areas involves more than just basic repairs. You need to ensure:

  • A clean, safe environment
  • No visible signs of damage
  • Minimal disruption to operation
  • A swift return to normalcy

Achieving this balance can be challenging, especially when damage extends beyond what is initially visible.

Why Speed and Quality Both Matter

Acting quickly helps limit further damage, while performing repairs correctly ensures satisfactory results. Rushing repairs without adequate drying or cleaning can lead to:

  • Lingering odours from smoke or dampness
  • Stains that resurface
  • Hidden moisture that can cause mould

Restoration must address both the visible aspects for customers and the hidden issues beneath the surface.

Getting Back to Business

Professional restoration focuses on returning spaces to a safe and presentable condition as quickly as possible. This process includes cleaning, drying, deodorising, and repairing the affected areas.

ServiceMaster Restore collaborates with businesses across the UK to restore customer-facing environments after fire or flood damage. Our teams act quickly and prioritise both safety and presentation.

If your premises have been affected, call 0800 021 3970, or find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business to learn how we can assist you. When damage occurs in customer-facing spaces, the urgency to address it is immediate. It’s not just about fixing the issue; it’s also about how quickly you can reopen, the space’s appearance, and what customers will notice when they return.

How Quickly Does Mould Grow After Water Damage?

How quickly does mould grow after water damage? You’ll be surprised.

When water damage occurs, most people focus on drying visible areas by using towels, opening windows, and turning on fans. This appears to be effective progress. However, many don’t realise how rapidly mould can begin to grow once moisture seeps into walls, floors, or insulation.

Mould growth after water damage can start in as little as 24 to 48 hours. That brief window surprises people. It means acting quickly is not just sensible, it is vital.

Why Mould Grows So Quickly After Water Damage

Mould needs three things to grow: moisture, warmth, and a surface to feed on.

After a leak or flood, your property has all three. Plasterboard, wood, carpets, and soft furnishings rapidly soak up water. Even if surfaces appear dry, moisture can still be trapped underneath.

If indoor temperatures remain above 10 degrees, mould spores can start multiplying quickly. Within a few days, you might notice a musty smell. Visible patches often appear soon after.

Where Mould Starts After a Leak or Flood

Mould does not always appear in obvious locations.

It often forms behind skirting boards, inside wall cavities, beneath flooring, and within insulation. These places remain damp longer because air cannot circulate properly.

In commercial buildings or flats, water can seep through ceilings and voids. This means mould growth might start in rooms that were not directly flooded.

Early Signs of Mould After Water Damage

You might notice:

  • A damp or earthy smell
  • Dark spots on walls or ceilings
  • Peeling paint or bubbling plaster
  • Increased condensation

If mould appears within a few days of water damage, it normally indicates that moisture is still present inside the structure.

Why Quick Drying Matters

The quicker you dry a property, the less likely it is to develop mould.

Surface drying alone isn’t enough; hidden moisture can cause damage. Professional moisture-detection tools identify water trapped in walls and floors, while controlled-drying systems safely and efficiently eliminate it.

Delays raise repair costs. Once mould takes hold, remediation becomes more difficult and disruptive.

Health Risks of Mould Growth

Mould exposure can cause breathing difficulties, skin irritation, and allergy symptoms. Children, older adults, and individuals with asthma are especially at risk.

Removing moisture promptly after water damage safeguards both the building and its occupants.

What to Do After Water Damage

If you experience a leak, burst pipe, or flood:

  • Stop the water source if safe to do so.
  • Remove standing water quickly.
  • Ventilate the area.
  • Avoid relying solely on heating to dry the space.
  • Contact professionals if large areas are affected.

Time is crucial. Taking action within the initial 24 to 48 hours can stop mould from forming.

Professional Help After Water Damage

Mould growth following water damage often begins before it becomes visible. By the time you notice it, the issue may have already spread.

ServiceMaster Restore offers expert water damage restoration and mould remediation throughout the UK. Our teams identify hidden moisture, execute controlled drying, and avoid secondary damage.

If you’re asking the question, “How quickly does mould grow after water damage?” Then, call 0800 021 3970, or find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business to see how we can help today.

Can You Stay in Your Home After a Flood?

When floodwater finally begins to recede, most people’s first thought is simple. Can we stay here?

It’s understandable. You seek stability and want to protect what remains. You might not have anywhere else to go on short notice. However, whether you can stay in your home after a flood depends on several factors, some of which are not immediately obvious.

Safety must take precedence. This guide will answer the question, “Can you stay in your home after a flood?”

1. Electrical Safety Comes First

Water and electricity do not mix. Even after floodwaters recede, moisture can stay inside sockets, wires, and appliances.

  • Do not switch the power back on yourself.
  • Do not plug in appliances that have been exposed to water.

A qualified electrician should inspect the system before you restore power. Until that occurs, the property may not be safe to occupy.

2. Structural Damage Is Not Always Visible

Floodwater damages materials. Plasterboard quickly absorbs water. Timber swells. Flooring lifts. In some cases, floors and stairs may feel solid but have reduced strength.

Look for:

  • Sagging ceilings
  • Cracked walls
  • Warped flooring
  • Doors that no longer close properly

If you observe structural changes, consult a professional before making a decision to remain.

3. Contamination and Hygiene Risks

Floodwater is seldom clean. It frequently contains sewage, chemicals, and debris from external sources.

Dry-looking surfaces can still harbour bacteria. Soft furnishings, carpets, and mattresses absorb contaminated water and may pose health risks.

If the flood involved external water or sewage, professional cleaning and disinfection is highly advised before anyone continues living in the property.

4. Damp and Mould Risk

Mould can start developing within 24 to 48 hours after water damage. Even if the house feels dry on the surface, moisture might still be trapped in walls and floors.

If you stay in the property without proper drying:

  • Damp spreads
  • Mould develops
  • Air quality declines

This poses health risks, especially for children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions.

5. Heating and Ventilation Challenges

In colder months, drying a flooded property becomes more challenging. Heating alone does not eliminate deep moisture and can even increase condensation in some areas.

Professional drying equipment removes hidden moisture and decreases the risk of secondary damage.

So, Can You Stay in Your Home After a Flood?

You may be able to remain in part of your home if:

  • Electricity has been declared safe.
  • There is no structural instability.
  • Contaminated materials have been removed.
  • Proper drying is in progress.
  • Air quality is safe.

However, if damage is extensive, involves sewage contamination, or impacts essential services, temporary accommodation may be the safer choice.

Your insurer can advise on cover for alternative accommodation if needed.

Why Acting Quickly Matters

The longer water remains in your property, the more damage it causes. Secondary problems like mould, corrosion, and material deterioration raise repair costs and lengthen recovery time.

Professional assessment offers clarity. It informs you whether the property is safe to occupy and what steps need to be taken next.

Getting the Right Support

Flooding can be very stressful. Uncertainty about safety, costs, and recovery time increases the worry. Clear guidance helps you make well-informed decisions. Read our step-by-step guide for documenting property damage to support your insurance claims.

ServiceMaster Restore offers residential flood damage restoration across the UK. Our teams evaluate safety, perform controlled drying, and oversee cleaning and restoration to help you return home as quickly and safely as possible.

If your property has been affected by flooding, call 0800 021 3970, or find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business to see how we can help.

Why Water Damage Spreads Faster in Commercial Buildings

Water damage in commercial properties rarely stays confined. A small leak can quickly extend across floors, walls, and ceilings.

Businesses often discover the full extent of water damage only after operations have been disrupted.

Commercial buildings face unique risks. Large spaces, complex systems, and continuous use allow water to spread quickly and cause significant damage.

Where Water Damage Often Starts in Commercial Buildings

Water damage often begins in areas that are used daily or rarely checked.

Plumbing failures in kitchens, toilets, and plant rooms are common sources. A broken pipe or faulty connection can leak significant amounts of water before detection.

Flat roofs are also vulnerable. Blocked outlets or damaged membranes can cause rainwater to pool and seep inside, often unnoticed until ceilings stain or collapse.

Sprinkler systems and fire suppression equipment can fail unexpectedly. Even minor faults may discharge water across multiple areas.

HVAC systems are another frequent source. Condensation or leaks above ceilings can drip for days before detection.

Why Water Damage Spreads So Fast in Commercial Properties

Open floor plans allow water to spread easily. Raised floors conceal moisture, while ceiling voids move water along cable routes and ducting.

Foot traffic worsens the problem, as staff and customers may unknowingly spread water throughout the building.

Moisture can quickly reach electrical systems, stock areas, and internal partitions.

By the time damage is visible, water may already be deep within the structure.

The Impact on Your Business

Water damage causes more than physical harm. It creates health and safety hazards, such as slippery floors, mould growth, and dangerous electrical systems.

Business disruption is often unavoidable, as some areas may need to close for drying and repairs. Stock, equipment, and documents may also be damaged beyond repair.

Delays can also impact insurance claims. Insurers expect prompt action, and slow responses may increase costs and prolong downtime.

What to Do Immediately

Prompt action is essential when addressing water damage.

  • If safe, isolate the water source.
  • Keep staff and customers clear of affected areas.
  • Photograph visible damage for documentation purposes.

Do not attempt to dry large areas yourself. Commercial water damage requires controlled drying to prevent further spread.

Early professional assistance reduces harm and speeds up recovery.

When Professional Restoration Becomes Necessary

Moisture trapped in floors, walls, and ceilings can continue to cause damage long after the leak is stopped.

Professional restoration teams use specialised equipment to detect hidden moisture, manage drying, and prevent secondary issues such as mould or structural damage. Early intervention protects your property, reduces downtime, and ensures compliance with health and safety regulations.

How ServiceMaster Restore Can Help

ServiceMaster Restore provides emergency water damage restoration for commercial properties across the UK. Our teams respond quickly, assess the full extent of the damage, and begin restoration without delay.

We work with insurers and loss adjusters to keep claims moving and minimise disruption to your business.

If your commercial property has suffered water damage, call 0800 021 3970 or find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business to see how we can assist today.

How Cold Weather Can Affect Your Roof

Cold weather causes roof damage frequently. Roof tiles and slates expand and contract as temperatures fluctuate. During the day, they may thaw slightly, only to freeze again overnight. This ongoing movement gradually weakens the materials.

Small cracks develop. Tiles become loose. Mortar deteriorates. Even slight damage permits water to penetrate the roof space, particularly during heavy rain.

The Impact of Frost and Ice

Frost penetrates tiny gaps in tiles and flashing. When it freezes, it expands, gradually forcing materials apart. Ice can also accumulate in gutters and along roof edges. Blocked gutters trap water, which then backs up under tiles or overflows onto walls. This frequently results in damp patches inside the property.

Winter Wind Damage

Strong winter winds lift loose tiles and flashing. Once one tile moves, others often follow. Wind-driven rain then enters.

You may not notice the damage immediately. Signs often appear weeks later as water stains on ceilings or walls.

Why Roof Leaks Are Worse in Winter

In cold weather, moisture takes longer to dry. A small leak can soak insulation, timber, and plaster before it becomes visible.

Wet insulation loses its effectiveness. Timber remains damp for longer. This creates ideal conditions for mould and rot to develop.

Warning Signs to Look Out For

  • Look for missing or slipped tiles after storms.
  • Check loft spaces for damp smells or dark patches.
  • Watch for staining on ceilings or walls.
  • Monitor overflowing gutters during rain.

These signs suggest your roof may have suffered cold-weather damage.

How to Protect Your Roof in Winter

Regular inspections make a difference. Clear gutters before temperatures drop below freezing. Fix loose tiles early. After storms, check your roof from ground level.

If you notice signs of water ingress, act swiftly. Early repairs prevent more extensive damage to your property’s structure.

When to Get Professional Help

Roof damage often leads to internal water damage. If moisture has entered the property, drying and repair should start as soon as possible.

ServiceMaster Restore provides professional water damage restoration across the UK. Our teams respond quickly, assess the full extent of damage, and carry out the right restoration work, even in winter conditions.

If cold weather has affected your roof or caused water damage, call 0800 021 3970, or find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business to see how we can help today.

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The Three Types of Contaminated Water

Discover the impacts of contaminated water and learn how to safeguard your home and family with this guide from the experts at ServiceMaster Restore UK.

Water damage can be a devastating and hazardous experience for homeowners, whether it is confined to the basement or spreads throughout the entire house.

It’s essential to understand the various types of contaminated water and their potential effects on your family’s health.

What is contaminated water?

According to Environment Law, water can be contaminated by:

  • Agricultural pollution
  • Sewage and wastewater
  • Oil pollution
  • Radioactive substances
  • River and marine dumping

What threats does contaminated water pose?

Contaminated water poses a serious threat to your health and property.

After water damage, using the proper methods to clean and disinfect every area of your home is essential.

Since water damage can come from a variety of sources, the cleanup procedures and safety protocols used will vary.

For example, restoring a home damaged by a broken pipe or an overflowing sink will differ from restoring one impacted by severe flood damage.

The types

Water damage, ranging from roof leaks to severe flooding, is a common issue many homeowners face and can be quite destructive.

There are three main types of water damage:

Category 1 – Clean water

Water damage classified as Category 1 originates from clean and sanitary sources, such as:

  • Broken water supply lines
  • Bathtubs or
  • Sink overflows

Although Category 1 water is generally harmless to humans and pets, it can still cause a potential risk to your home.

If left untreated, Category 1 water may cause toxic mould growth within 24 to 48 hours.

Mould can cause a significant amount of damage to the structure of your home, your health and your belongings.

Category 2 – Grey Water

Category 2 water contamination includes chemical, biological, and physical contaminants.

This type of water has not come into contact with faecal matter. However, it may still contain other harmful substances that could cause illness if ingested.

If these contaminants are not removed, Category 2 water can be reclassified as Category 3 within as little as 48 hours.

Category 3 – Black Water

Category 3 water contamination is the most unsanitary and dangerous type. It can originate from raw sewage or natural disasters such as floods.

This type of water is a breeding ground for bacteria, pathogens, and other organisms that can cause disease.

Due to the hazardous nature of this contamination, porous materials like drywall, upholstery, and carpets become completely unsalvageable.

Risks to your home

If you have contaminated water in your home, it is crucial to begin cleanup and restoration immediately to minimise damage.

Unfortunately, most items that come into contact with Category 3 water must be removed due to the risk of harmful bacteria.

Protect your home against contaminated water damage

From a burst pipe to extreme weather, we’ll handle flood & water damage quickly and effectively, 24/7, 365 days a year.

By sorting the incident quickly, we’ll minimise any disruption to your business and keep the damage low, saving you time, money and hassle in the long run.

We also offer leak detection services to help you spot and prevent water damage before it occurs.

To learn more about how we can help restore your property, call us direct on 0845 762 6828 or find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business today.

Signs of water damage

If you are looking to buy or rent a property, it’s wise to watch for signs of water damage. Signing a contract is straightforward, but exiting it can be difficult if you discover water damage after you’ve signed.

Here are some signs of water damage to watch out for.

Outside of the property

  • Look around the exterior window and door frames; is there any separation? A separation often indicates the potential for leaks or moisture entering the property.
  • Check for missing or cracked roof tiles. This can show if water might enter through the roof.
  • Ensure guttering is intact so that water can flow away from the property freely.

Inside the property 

  • Look for water rings on the ceiling or walls, as these indicate leaks from pipework.
  • Check for any signs of a leak; even small watermarks tell a story.
  • Look for soft or sagging areas in the flooring, especially near water appliances like sinks, baths, dishwashers, and washing machines. While this might simply be faulty appliances, it’s worth investigating.
  • Inspect for cracked and warped flooring, which can reveal previous water damage that caused further problems.
  • Notice any recent repairs to ceilings, walls, and floors, as this may indicate past water damage has been repaired.
  • Remember to check the loft, basement, and garage—all can provide important clues about water damage.

Need professional water damage restoration?

If you are unfortunate enough to be faced with a property with water damage, we can help!

Visit our water damage page, find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business or contact us on 0845 762 6828