What to Do in the First 24 Hours After Water Damage

Water damage is one of the most urgent issues a property owner can face. Whether caused by a burst pipe, appliance failure, roof leak, or flooding, the actions you take in the first 24 hours can dramatically reduce long‑term damage, prevent costly repairs, and protect your home or business from mold and structural problems. In this guide, you’ll find a practical, step‑by‑step plan for what to do immediately after discovering water damage.

Why the First 24 Hours Matter

Water spreads fast. Within just a few hours, moisture can soak deep into walls, floors, and ceilings. If left unaddressed, this moisture becomes a breeding ground for mold — which can begin growing within 24–48 hours — and can weaken structural materials. Taking quick, wise action helps limit these risks and sets the stage for a successful restoration process.

Step 1: Ensure Safety First

Safety should always be your top priority. Before doing anything else:

Turn Off Electricity

If water has reached outlets, appliances, or electrical panels, turn off the power to avoid electrocution. Only do this if you can do so safely; otherwise, wait for professionals.

Avoid Contaminated Water

Floodwater or sewage backups may contain harmful bacteria or chemicals. Stay out of affected areas unless you’re wearing protective gear like gloves and waterproof boots.

Check Structural Hazards

Sagging ceilings, warped floors, or cracked walls can signal structural instability. If you spot these, evacuate immediately and call professionals before re‑entering.

Step 2: Find and Stop the Source of Water

Once it’s safe:

• Locate main water valve and shut it off if the issue is from an internal leak.
• Turn off leaking appliances like washing machines or dishwashers.
• For roof leaks or stormwater, use tarps or barriers if possible to slow further water entry.

Stopping the source quickly reduces ongoing damage and prevents more water from saturating your property.

Step 3: Document the Damage

Documentation is essential for insurance claims and restoration planning.

Take Photos and Videos of:

• All affected areas before moving anything
• Water lines on walls or floors
• Damaged furniture and belongings
• Structural elements like ceilings or beams

Create a Damage Inventory

Note the damaged items, their condition, and estimated value. Save any receipts if available — this can help with reimbursement.

Step 4: Contact Your Insurance Company

Notify your insurer as soon as possible. Early communication helps:

• Begin the claims process
• Clarify what your policy covers (water damage vs. flood damage)
• Understand if you can start mitigation efforts before an adjuster arrives

Most policies allow emergency mitigation — such as water removal and temporary repairs — even before an official inspection.

Step 5: Start Removing Standing Water (If Safe)

If the water level is shallow and it’s safe to do so, begin removing water:

• Use wet/dry vacuums, mops, and towels
• Work from the outer edges toward the center, as part of an Emergency Water Restoration process.
• Remove rugs and lightweight items to dry separately

Removing standing water quickly reduces how much moisture seeps into walls and floors.

Step 6: Protect and Move Valuables

Some items can be saved if moved promptly:

• Electronics and documents should be moved to a dry area first
• Furniture legs can be elevated with wood blocks or foil to minimize absorption
• Photos, heirlooms, and valuable items get priority relocation

This helps protect items from further damage and gives you time to decide what can be restored.

Step 7: Improve Airflow and Begin Drying

Drying helps prevent mold and musty odors. Here’s what to do:

• Open windows, if weather and safety allow
• Run air conditioners, fans, or dehumidifiers
• Lift baseboards and cabinet doors to allow air circulation underneath and behind surfaces

This is a temporary solution until professional equipment can be installed, but it helps reduce moisture quickly.

Step 8: Avoid Common Mistakes

Don’t delay professional help.

DIY drying is often not enough — hidden moisture inside walls and floors needs specialized tools.

Avoid household fans as the only solution.

They can move air but don’t remove moisture effectively like commercial dehumidifiers.

Don’t throw away damaged materials before insurance approval.

Even items that seem unsalvageable may need to be documented by your adjuster.

Step 9: Call a Professional Restoration Team

Within the first 24 hours, it’s ideal to have a certified water damage restoration company begin mitigation. Professionals will:

• Conduct moisture mapping behind walls
• Use industrial extractors to remove water
• Apply advanced drying and dehumidification
• Provide mold prevention treatments
• Assist with insurance documentation and claims

This ensures a thorough restoration — not just visible cleanup.

Final Thoughts

The first 24 hours after water damage are critical. Acting quickly and smartly can stop damage from spreading, lower restoration costs, protect your belongings, and reduce health risks. From ensuring safety and stopping the water source to documenting damage, contacting insurance, and calling restoration professionals, each step you take sets the foundation for successful recovery.