What to do in the First 24 Hours after Water Damage?

While water damage isn’t something that you ever want to experience, the reality of it is that it does occur – and knowing what to do after you encounter a water damage situation on your property can often spell the difference between further damage to your home or office and streamlining effective cleanup and recovery.

So just what should you do within the first 24 hours of discovering water damage? Here’s a quick rundown:

Water Damage? Do These Things First

  • Stop the water source: This is mostly applicable to situations where an appliance or home accessory caused the flood. For instance, if a pipe busted in the basement, you’ll want to shut off the water to the house so that it doesn’t continue to pour into the property. However, it’s important to take caution when doing so. Standing water can pose many hazards, from the presence of harmful bacteria to even electrocution. Don’t do anything you’re uncomfortable with.
  • Call your insurance agent: The faster you act in a water damage situation, the easier it’ll likely be to restore your property. But getting the restoration professionals on scene likely starts with a call to your insurance agent.
  • Remove accessible items: In a water damage situation, it’s natural to try and salvage as many valuables as possible – but only do it if it is safe to do so. If you are unable – or don’t feel comfortable – navigating the scene for valuables, be sure to talk to the restoration professionals about contents cleaning, as many items may be salvageable even after coming into contact with water.
  • Stay safe: Always keep your safety a priority during a water damage situation and even consider leaving the home if the incident becomes too serious or if the water appears to be contaminated and could impact your health. If you navigate any standing water or attempt any extraction yourself, be sure to wear waterproof boots, gloves and other clothing and equipment to protect you from potentially contaminated water. Again, don’t do anything that you’re uncomfortable with or that may pose a safety risk. Also, be sure to stay away from areas where water may have come in contact with asbestos-containing materials.
  • Document: If you can, take lots of pictures of the scene that you can present to your insurance agent. It’s always better to have too many pictures than not enough.

MASTER SERVICE GROUP, INC.

22032 N. State Route 59

Barrington, IL 60010

+1 847 250 9594

office@msgrestoration.com


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