When water damage strikes—whether from a burst pipe, storm, appliance leak, or sewage backup—the first 24 hours are absolutely critical. How you respond during this narrow window can make the difference between a quick recovery and long-term structural issues, mold infestations, or costly renovations.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the vital steps to take immediately following water damage—and why trusting a professional like STOP Restoration of Spokane can be the smartest decision for your home or business.
Step 1: Prioritize Safety First
Before you even think about salvaging items or mopping up water, make sure the area is safe to enter. Water and electricity are a dangerous mix.
Turn off power to affected areas, especially if the water is near outlets or electrical devices.
Watch for structural damage like sagging ceilings or buckled floors that could collapse.
Check for contaminants. If the water is from a sewage backup or floodwater, avoid direct contact. It may carry harmful bacteria and chemicals.
If in doubt, wait for professionals to inspect the property.
Step 2: Stop the Water Source
Once it’s safe, identify and stop the source of the water intrusion. This may mean:
Shutting off the main water valve.
Repairing a burst pipe.
Covering a roof leak with a tarp.
Turning off a malfunctioning appliance.
The longer water flows unchecked, the greater the damage—and the higher the cost.
Step 3: Contact a Professional Restoration Company
Time is of the essence. While DIY attempts might seem like a quick fix, water seeps into places you can’t see—inside walls, under floors, and in insulation. Without the proper tools and techniques, damage continues to grow.
That’s why homeowners and businesses in Spokane rely on STOP Restoration. With years of experience, advanced equipment, and 24/7 emergency service, STOP Restoration’s certified technicians respond quickly to mitigate damage, begin drying, and initiate the restoration process.
STOP Restoration doesn’t just clean up water—they preserve your property and peace of mind.
Step 4: Document Everything
Before cleanup begins, take detailed photos and videos of the damage. Capture:
Affected rooms and angles.
Damaged items and furniture.
Visible water lines or standing water.
These visuals are crucial for insurance claims and can speed up the reimbursement process. Also, keep a written record of the damage and any actions you take (such as shutting off water or calling professionals).
Step 5: Start Moisture Removal and Drying
If you’ve called STOP Restoration, they’ll arrive quickly with industrial-grade dehumidifiers, air movers, and extraction tools. But while you wait:
Use mops, towels, or a wet/dry vac to remove as much standing water as possible.
Open windows (if weather permits) to increase air circulation.
Move rugs, cushions, or valuables to a dry area.
Speed matters—within 24 hours, mold spores can begin growing in damp environments.
Step 6: Protect Your Belongings
Water damage doesn’t just affect structure—it puts your personal items at risk.
Remove electronics, art, and important documents to a safe, dry place.
Place furniture legs on wood blocks or foil to prevent staining and warping.
Avoid using household fans in areas with contaminated water, as this could spread airborne pathogens.
STOP Restoration provides contents cleaning and pack-out services, ensuring your valuables are professionally cleaned and stored during the restoration.
Step 7: Notify Your Insurance Provider
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to begin the claims process. Provide:
The documentation you gathered.
A description of the event and damage.
Any professional assessments (which STOP Restoration can help provide).
Some policies have strict time limits for claims, so early notification is essential.
Step 8: Trust the Restoration Experts
After the initial response, the road to full recovery begins. Water damage restoration often involves:
Demolition of unsalvageable drywall, flooring, and insulation.
Mold prevention or remediation.
Structural drying and sanitation.
Rebuilding or refinishing damaged areas.
STOP Restoration in Spokane handles the entire process with care and transparency. Their team works directly with your insurance provider, keeps you informed at every step, and gets your property back to pre-loss condition—fast.
Why Choose STOP Restoration of Spokane?
STOP Restoration isn’t just a cleanup crew. They’re a partner in your property’s protection and recovery. Here’s why Spokane residents trust them:
24/7 Rapid Response: Emergencies don’t wait. Neither does STOP.
Certified Technicians: Trained to handle water, mold, fire, and biohazard damage.
Cutting-Edge Equipment: Industrial-grade dryers, moisture meters, and thermal imaging.
Locally Owned, Nationally Backed: Personalized Spokane service with national support and standards.
When disaster strikes, STOP Restoration stops the damage in its tracks—and starts the healing process.
Final Thoughts: Act Fast, Stay Safe
Water damage can be overwhelming, but with the right actions—and the right team—you can minimize the impact and avoid long-term consequences. The first 24 hours are your window to act decisively.
If you’re in Spokane and facing a water emergency, don’t wait. Call STOP Restoration immediately on 509-260-8166 and rest easy knowing your property is in expert hands.
FAQ
1. What should I do immediately after discovering water damage?
Answer:
First, ensure your safety—turn off electricity in the affected area and stop the water source if possible. Then, contact a professional restoration company like STOP Restoration of Spokane right away. Acting within the first 24 hours is crucial to minimizing damage and mold growth.
2. How quickly can STOP Restoration respond to a water damage emergency?
Answer:
STOP Restoration of Spokane offers 24/7 emergency service and typically arrives within 1-2 hours of your call. Fast response is critical to reducing water damage and preventing secondary issues like mold.
3. Is water damage covered by insurance?
Answer:
It depends on your policy. Most homeowner’s insurance covers sudden and accidental water damage (like a burst pipe), but not gradual damage or flood events unless you have flood insurance. STOP Restoration works directly with your insurer and helps document the damage for claims.
4. How long does the water damage restoration process take?
Answer:
The timeline varies based on the severity and extent of the damage. Generally:
5. Can I handle water damage cleanup myself?
Answer:
For minor spills, yes. But for significant water damage, DIY methods fall short. Water can seep into walls, under floors, and behind cabinets. STOP Restoration uses professional-grade equipment to detect hidden moisture and ensure complete drying to prevent structural damage and mold.
6. How do I know if mold is forming after water damage?
Answer:
Mold can begin growing within 24–48 hours in damp areas. Signs include:
7. What types of water damage does STOP Restoration handle?
Answer:
STOP Restoration of Spokane handles:
8. What happens to my belongings during restoration?
Answer:
STOP Restoration offers contents cleaning and storage services. Salvageable items are:
9. How much does water damage restoration cost?
Answer:
Costs vary widely based on:
Area affected
Type and category of water
Extent of damage
Most insured events are covered by insurance, and STOP Restoration provides detailed estimates upfront and helps you navigate the claims process.
10. Why choose STOP Restoration of Spokane over other companies?
Answer:
STOP Restoration stands out because of their:
Fast, 24/7 emergency response
Locally owned and operated team with national backing
Certified technicians
State-of-the-art equipment
Customer-first approach- They don’t just clean up the mess—they restore your peace of mind.
