Flooded Homes Have an Unpleasant Odor

9/14/2018 (Permalink)

Floods are dangerous! When the water recedes be sure to call the professionals for help!

Although the smell of your flooded home in Peoria, Arizona, may be repulsive, that is not your biggest problem. Your biggest problem has to do with the source of the odor. Frequently, that is mold growth.

No two flooded homes have the same issues, but they all have things in common

Floodwater Sets the Stage for a Massive Mold Problem

From a property damage perspective, this may be your biggest threat. If the odor you smell has a musty component to it, you may already be well on your way to a mold problem. The only way to remove musty odor is to quickly dry out your home and remove any mold that has started to grow.

Sewage Backup Is a Serious Health Hazard

Sometimes, flood water will cause sewage to back up from the sewer system into your home. The pungent odor it brings with it is a reminder of the bacteria and other dangerous organisms that the sewage contains. It is a risk to humans and animals and can result in significant property damage and sewage system loss. Left untreated, sewage can also be the source of mold growth. This odor will not disappear until the sewage is removed and the affected areas are cleaned, disinfected and deodorized.

Floods Bring in Other Sources of Odor

When the water recedes, you can expect to find that the flood left just about everything imaginable behind including topsoil, garbage, and other debris. There may also be traces of gas, oil and other petroleum residues. In small quantities, none of this poses a significant hazard. They can be easily cleaned up and deodorized.

The Foul Odors Are Gone, and a Fresh Smell Has Returned

The key to flood cleanup and the prevention of mold growth is knowing how to deal with the several different aspects of flood damage. Consider bringing in a team of local flood remediation specialists with the experience and equipment to do the job right. Your home will thank you for it.