Immediate Actions To Take After Water Damage

Time is of the essence when dealing with water damage. Here are the critical actions you should take immediately:

• Safety first: Ensure your safety before attempting any cleanup. If there is standing water, turn off the main water valve and electricity. Do not enter flooded areas if there is a risk of electrocution.
• Remove standing water: Use a pump or wet/dry vacuum to remove as much standing water as possible. Open windows and doors to ventilate the area.
• Protect your belongings: Move furniture, valuables, and important documents to dry areas. If possible, elevate items off the floor to prevent further damage.
• Document the damage: Take pictures or videos of the damage for insurance purposes. Make a list of all affected items.
• Contact a professional: If the water damage is extensive or involves structural elements, contact a professional water damage cleanup company for assistance.

What Not to Do After Water Damage

Avoid these common mistakes that can worsen water damage:

• Do not use fans to dry carpets: This can push moisture deeper into the padding and subfloor.
• Do not turn on heat sources: This can cause rapid evaporation and lead to mold growth.
• Do not use bleach on wet surfaces: Bleach can react with moisture and create toxic fumes.
• Do not move wet furniture and items: This can spread water and cause further damage.
• Do not ignore small water leaks: Even minor leaks can lead to significant damage over time.