Water damage can strike your home or business without warning—burst pipes, heavy rains, or appliance malfunctions can flood an area in minutes. In these critical moments, fast action is essential to minimize damage and ensure safety. While calling a professional restoration company like STOP Restoration, known for their rapid response and expert water damage restoration services, is a crucial step, there are important things you can do before they arrive to protect your property and well-being.
Here are five essential actions to take immediately after discovering water damage, before the professionals arrive on the scene.
1. Ensure Safety First
Before thinking about the damage or cleanup, prioritize safety. Water damage can create hazardous conditions:
Turn off electricity: If water is near electrical outlets, appliances, or the breaker box, do not touch anything! If it's safe to do so, shut off power to the affected areas from a dry location.
Avoid contaminated water: If the water source is from a toilet, sewer line, or floodwater, it may contain harmful bacteria or chemicals. Avoid contact without proper protection.
Watch your step: Wet floors can be slippery. Debris, hidden structural damage, or uneven surfaces can cause injuries.
If any situation appears too dangerous—leave and wait for emergency responders or professionals like STOP Restoration to handle the hazards.
2. Identify and Stop the Source of Water (If Possible)
Stopping the flow of water is the most effective way to prevent further damage:
Shut off the main water supply if a burst pipe or appliance is the culprit.
If it’s a roof leak during a storm, try to contain the water using buckets, tarps, or towels to direct it away from valuable items.
If it's an appliance like a dishwasher or washing machine, unplug the unit if it's safe to do so, and turn off the connected water valve.
Quick action here can limit the spread of water and give STOP Restoration a head start when they arrive.
3. Document the Damage for Insurance
Once it’s safe, take photos or videos of the affected areas. This documentation is invaluable for insurance claims:
Capture images of the water source, damaged furniture, walls, floors, and any visible structural damage.
Make notes about what happened, when it was discovered, and any actions you took.
If your insurance policy covers water damage, notify your provider as soon as possible and keep all receipts for temporary repairs or emergency purchases.
STOP Restoration works closely with insurance providers and can assist you in navigating the claims process efficiently.
4. Begin Water Removal and Mitigation
If the situation allows and safety is not compromised, you can begin minor mitigation efforts to reduce further water damage:
Use a wet/dry vacuum to remove standing water if the amount is manageable.
Blot water from furniture and remove cushions to dry separately.
Lift rugs off wet floors and remove small items that could stain surfaces, like books or colored fabrics.
Open windows and doors to promote air circulation, or use fans and dehumidifiers to begin the drying process.
These actions won’t replace professional drying and restoration, but they can slow down water damage and mold growth until STOP Restoration arrives with industrial-grade equipment.
5. Protect Undamaged Items
Prevent further loss by relocating undamaged items to a dry, safe location:
Move furniture, electronics, documents, and valuables to higher ground or another room.
Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs to prevent water absorption and staining.
Store smaller items in plastic bins or sealed containers if available.
Acting quickly can save you thousands in repairs and replacements—and reduce the overall time and cost of professional restoration services.
When to Call STOP Restoration
Once you’ve done these immediate steps, it’s time to bring in the experts. STOP Restoration is a trusted leader in water damage restoration across the country. With 24/7 emergency services, state-of-the-art equipment, and trained technicians, they provide:
Complete water extraction and drying
Mold prevention and remediation
Structural drying and dehumidification
Damage assessment and repair planning
Their quick response helps minimize downtime and prevents long-term damage to your home or business.
Final Thoughts
Water damage is stressful and can escalate quickly. While your first reaction might be panic, taking these five initial steps before calling a professional can protect your property and give you a sense of control. Remember, the sooner you act, the better the outcome.
And when it’s time to call in the experts, STOP Restoration is ready to restore your peace of mind with prompt, professional, and compassionate service. Whether it’s a minor leak or a major flood, they’re equipped to bring your property back to pre-loss condition efficiently and thoroughly.
Don't wait—when water damage strikes, STOP Restoration is just a phone call away.
FAQ
1. What should I do first when I discover water damage?
Answer:
First, ensure your safety by turning off the power (if safe), avoiding contaminated water, and watching for structural hazards. Then try to stop the water source and contact a professional like STOP Restoration for emergency assistance.
2. Can I handle water removal myself?
Answer:
You can begin basic water removal using towels, wet/dry vacuums, and fans. However, professional equipment is often necessary to fully extract water, prevent mold, and dry hidden moisture. STOP Restoration uses industrial-grade tools for comprehensive restoration.
3. How quickly should I act after water damage occurs?
Answer:
Immediately. The first 24-48 hours are critical to minimize damage and prevent mold growth. Calling a trusted restoration company like STOP Restoration right away ensures a fast response and limits long-term issues.
4. How do I know if the water is contaminated?
Answer:
Water from toilets, sewer backups, or outdoor flooding may contain bacteria or chemicals and is considered hazardous. If you're unsure, avoid contact and let STOP Restoration assess and handle the cleanup safely.
5. Will my insurance cover water damage?
Answer:
It depends on the cause. Sudden incidents like burst pipes are typically covered, while gradual leaks or floodwater often require additional coverage. STOP Restoration can help document the damage and work with your insurer on claims.
6. What are signs of hidden water damage?
Answer:
Common signs include musty odors, peeling paint, warped flooring, or damp walls. Even if surfaces seem dry, moisture may be trapped inside. STOP Restoration uses moisture meters and thermal imaging to detect hidden damage.
7. How long does the water removal and drying process take?
Answer:
The timeline varies depending on the extent of the damage and materials involved. Most drying processes take 3 to 5 days, but STOP Restoration provides detailed assessments and timelines tailored to your situation.
8. Can mold grow after water damage?
Answer:
Yes, mold can begin to develop within 24-72 hours in damp environments. That’s why fast drying and proper dehumidification are crucial. STOP Restoration offers mold prevention and remediation as part of its water damage services.
9. Is it safe to stay in my home during restoration?
Answer:
In some cases, yes—but if the water damage is severe, affects electrical systems, or involves contaminated water, it’s safer to vacate. STOP Restoration can advise you based on your specific conditions.
10. Why should I choose STOP Restoration for emergency water removal?
Answer:
STOP Restoration is a nationally trusted name in disaster restoration. They offer 24/7 emergency service, certified technicians, cutting-edge equipment, and personalized care. Their goal is to restore your home—and your peace of mind—quickly and effectively.
