Water damage can turn your home or business upside down in an instant. Whether it’s from a burst pipe, heavy rain, an appliance malfunction, or a backed-up sewer line, water where it doesn’t belong is a serious problem. At RestorePro Reconstruction, we’ve seen how quickly a small leak can become a major disaster, and we know how overwhelming it can feel when it happens.
That’s why we’ve created this guide to help you take the right steps immediately after discovering water damage. Acting fast can make all the difference in preventing further damage, protecting your health, and saving money in the long run.
In this article, we’ll walk you through exactly what to do (and what not to do) after water damage occurs. Whether you’re dealing with a minor leak or a full-blown flood, we’ve got your back.
Key Takeaways
- Shut off the water source and electricity if safe to do so.
- Prioritize safety, avoid contaminated or deep standing water.
- Call a professional water damage restoration company like RestorePro Reconstruction right away.
- Document the damage with photos and videos for insurance purposes.
- Start the drying process as soon as possible to prevent mold growth.
- Remove salvageable items from the affected area.
- Contact your insurance provider to begin the claims process.
- Avoid DIY fixes for large scale water damage. Professional help ensures thorough cleanup and prevents hidden damage.
- Mold can begin growing within 24-48 hours, so act quickly.
- Restoration professionals can also help you with insurance documentation and communication.
Step 1: Safety First
Before you do anything else, take a moment to assess the safety of your surroundings. Water damage can create hidden hazards, especially when it involves electrical systems or contaminated water.
- Is the water clean or dirty? If the water came from a clean source like a supply line, it’s less hazardous than sewage backups or floodwater, which can contain harmful bacteria, chemicals, or even pests.
- Is there a risk of electrical shock? If water is near electrical outlets, appliances, or your breaker box, do not attempt to walk through or touch it. Shut off power to the area if you can safely do so from a dry spot.
- Is the structure stable? Water can weaken floors, ceilings, and walls. Be cautious and avoid walking on visibly sagging surfaces.
When in doubt, stay out and call a professional.
Step 2: Stop the Water at Its Source
Once you’re sure it’s safe, the next priority is to stop more water from entering the affected area.
- If the damage is from a burst pipe or plumbing issue, shut off your home’s main water supply immediately.
- For appliance leaks (like dishwashers or washing machines), unplug the unit and shut off the connected water valve.
- In the case of roof leaks, use buckets or containers to catch the water until a tarp or professional repair can be put in place.
Stopping the water early is the first step toward containing the damage.
Step 3: Call RestorePro Reconstruction
Time is of the essence when water is in your home or business. The longer water sits, the more damage it causes, especially to flooring, drywall, insulation, and personal belongings. At RestorePro Reconstruction, we offer 24/7 emergency water damage services for situations just like this.
When you call us, here’s what you can expect:
- Fast response times, day or night
- A professional assessment of the damage
- Water extraction, drying, and dehumidification
- Moisture detection with advanced tools
- Help navigating insurance claims
We’re not just here to fix the damage. We’re here to walk with you through the entire restoration process, step by step.
Step 4: Document the Damage
Before you begin cleanup or remove anything from the affected area, take time to document the scene.
- Take clear photos and videos of all visible damage—walls, floors, furniture, electronics, and anything else that’s been affected.
- Capture wide-angle shots as well as close-ups.
- If you can, jot down the date and time when the water damage occurred and note any known causes (e.g., “Heavy rain caused water to enter through the basement door”).
This documentation will be incredibly helpful when you file your insurance claim, and your restoration company may need it for their report as well.
Step 5: Contact Your Insurance Company
Reach out to your homeowner’s or property insurance provider as soon as you can. They’ll walk you through the claims process and may send out an adjuster to assess the damage.
Here are a few tips:
- Be honest and thorough when describing the incident.
- Provide the photos and videos you took.
- Save all receipts related to cleanup, temporary lodging, or emergency repairs.
- Ask about coverage for temporary housing or business interruption, if applicable.
At RestorePro Reconstruction, we’ve worked with all major insurance carriers and can assist you with paperwork and communication if needed.
Step 6: Start the Drying Process
If it’s safe and you’re waiting for help to arrive, you can take a few steps to jumpstart the drying process:
- Use fans and open windows (if weather permits) to promote air circulation.
- Use towels or a wet/dry shop vac to soak up standing water, if it’s a small area and you know the water is clean.
- Remove rugs, curtains, or other absorbent materials from the wet area to prevent additional soaking.
- Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs to prevent stains or damage.
That said, it’s important not to overdo it. DIY methods can’t always detect moisture trapped behind walls or under floors. That’s where professional-grade drying equipment and moisture meters come in.
Step 7: Remove and Protect Personal Belongings
Quickly remove undamaged or salvageable items from the affected area. This might include:
- Clothing
- Electronics
- Furniture
- Documents
- Photos
- Area rugs or decor
Dry these items out as best you can in a clean, dry space. If you’re unsure whether something is safe to keep or not (especially electronics), let us evaluate it during our inspection.
Also, be aware of mold risks. Mold can begin forming in as little as 24 hours, especially in humid environments or where porous materials like drywall, carpet, and upholstery are involved.
Step 8: Don’t Attempt DIY Restoration for Large Losses
We know that DIY projects are all the rage at the moment, but water damage restoration isn’t just about mopping up a mess. It involves science, tools, and training to:
- Identify hidden moisture
- Prevent mold growth
- Protect structural integrity
- Salvage what can be saved
- Dispose of hazardous or unsalvageable materials properly
Trying to handle it all yourself can lead to bigger problems down the road, like lingering mold, warped flooring, or weak drywall. Worse, your insurance claim could be denied if it looks like damage worsened due to improper cleanup.
Hiring a professional team like RestorePro Reconstruction ensures the job is done right the first time.
Step 9: Understand What Happens Next
Once you’ve contacted a professional restoration company, you’ll begin a step-by-step process that typically includes:
- Inspection & Assessment – We’ll inspect the damage, use moisture detection tools, and create a plan for cleanup and repairs.
- Water Removal – Using high-powered pumps and vacuums, we’ll extract standing water quickly.
- Drying & Dehumidification – Our industrial-grade dehumidifiers and air movers dry your space thoroughly, even in hard-to-reach areas.
- Cleaning & Sanitizing – We clean and disinfect all salvageable materials to prevent mold and bacteria.
- Restoration & Repairs – If needed, we can coordinate any repairs or reconstruction to restore your property to its original condition.
From start to finish, RestorePro Reconstruction is with you every step of the way.
Step 10: Learn and Prepare for the Future
No one wants to experience water damage twice. But once you’ve been through it, you’ll be in a better position to prevent it next time. Here are a few tips:
- Install water alarms and automatic shutoff valves.
- Regularly inspect plumbing, appliances, and your roof for signs of wear.
- Clean your gutters and downspouts to prevent backups.
- Consider a sump pump with a battery backup for basements.
- Store important documents and valuables in waterproof containers.
And of course, save our number. You never know when you might need us!
Final Thoughts from RestorePro Reconstruction
Water damage is one of the most stressful things a property owner can face, but you don’t have to face it alone. At RestorePro Reconstruction, we’re more than just a cleanup crew. We’re your trusted partners in getting your life back on track.
We understand how important your home or business is to you. That’s why we act fast, work efficiently, and treat your space with the care it deserves. From emergency response to full restoration, our mission is to make a tough situation just a little easier.
If you’re dealing with water damage right now, don’t wait. We’ll handle the damage, so you can focus on what matters most. Give us a call today.