Some people like to have a home that is centrally heated by oil to give it that warm feel during the cold seasons. However, what if this comfort is interrupted by a leak and you find yourself with spilled home heating oil?
Though a spill looks as if it is impossible to handle, being composed when handling it is incredibly important, as it is going to help prevent any further damage and lead to a perfect conclusion. Below is a step-by-step response plan for a home heating oil spill.
1. Stop the Source of the Leak:
The first priority is to prevent further damage by stopping the source of the leak. Here’s what to do:
- Turn Off the System: Locate your home heating oil tank and shut off the supply line. Consult your owner’s manual or contact your heating oil provider for specific instructions.
- Contain the Spill: If you can, try and mop up the spill with something like sand, kitty litter, or sawdust to help soak up the juice. This will ensure that the oil does not spread over a larger area of water as it burns.
- Evacuate the Area: Heating oil on its own is dangerous, so the fumes from it are even worse since they are flammable. If you have oil fumes or become dizzy, get out of your house at once and dial 911.
2. Assess the Damage and Call Your Insurance Company:
After the shooting has stopped or the immediate threat is no longer there, it is time to check, evaluate the losses, and call your insurance.
- Document the Damage: Document the Event: Take pictures and videos of the oil spill, the area where the oil has spread, and any properties that may have been affected by the spill.
- Contact your insurance company: In the event of an accident, report your case to the insurance firm promptly. Describe the circumstances of the spill in detail, stating how many barrels of oil were released and the harm done by the spill.
3. The Role of a Public Adjuster:
A public adjuster is a licensed professional who works on behalf of policyholders to ensure they receive fair compensation for property damage claims. Here’s how a public adjuster can assist you:
- Negotiating with Your Insurance Company: Public adjusters know how to examine the terms of the policy as well as how to negotiate with the insurer on behalf of a policyholder. They can help you make sure that you get the most out of your compensation.
- Inventorying Damaged Property: They will make sure all parts of the loss are documented and noted properly in order to avoid any detail being omitted to increase the value of the claim.
4. Prioritize Safety During Cleanup:
Working with home heating oil spills requires extreme caution and should only be carried out by experts.
- Safety Concerns: Heating oil is a dangerous substance most commonly used for home heating purposes. On the other hand, professional cleaners always work with the appropriate enhanced equipment and are well trained to cope with spills.
- Environmental Considerations: Improper cleanup can lead to environmental contamination. Professional companies have the expertise and resources to dispose of the oil safely and responsibly.
