Water Damage Checklist: What You Should Do Immediately Following Water Damage in Dallas, GA

Whether from a burst pipe, roof leak, or natural disaster, water damage can happen in your Dallas home at any given time. When your home suffers from water damage, acting quickly is the only way to minimize damage and prevent long-term issues like mold growth. While it is easy to feel overwhelmed, having a clear plan in place can make all the difference. The following checklist of steps you should take immediately following water damage will help you know how to respond and show why calling professional restoration services is essential for safeguarding your home.

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What to Do Immediately After Water Damage

1. Ensure Safety First

Before addressing the water damage, make sure your home is safe to enter. Water and electricity are a dangerous combination. If you suspect water has come into contact with electrical outlets, appliances, or the fuse box, turn off your electricity at the main breaker—but only if it is safe to do so. If you are uncertain, contact an electrician. If the water damage is due to contaminated water—such as sewage backups—avoid contact with the water entirely. Wear protective gear like gloves and boots if you must enter the affected area.

2. Identify and Stop the Water Source

If possible, locate the source of the water and stop it. In the case of a burst pipe, turn off your home’s water supply. If the damage is due to a roof leak or storm, take temporary measures to stop more water from entering, such as using tarps to cover leaks or damaged areas.

3. Call a Professional Water Restoration Service

While may be tempting to try and handle the water damage restoration on your own, calling a professional restoration company is your best bet to fully address the problem. Water damage restoration professionals have the experience and tools necessary to properly dry out your home, even in hard-to-reach areas where moisture tends to hide. Without complete drying, your home could develop mold within 24 to 48 hours, leading to costly and potentially harmful consequences. Restoration companies also offer moisture detection technology to identify hidden water damage in walls, subfloors, and ceilings. They use industrial-strength dehumidifiers and fans to remove water and moisture, preventing further damage and mold growth. Additionally, professionals can sanitize and disinfect affected areas, especially in cases of contaminated water exposure.

4. Document the Damage

Before starting any cleanup, work with your water damage restoration team to document the extent of the damage for insurance purposes. Take clear photos and videos of all affected areas, including damaged floors, walls, furniture, and belongings. Having thorough documentation will make the insurance claims process smoother and help ensure you get proper compensation for repairs.

5. Water Removal & Drying

The longer water sits in your home, the more damage it can cause. Your restoration team will begin removing standing water with a wet/dry vacuum and other equipment.  They’ll also use specialized equipment to dry out the remaining moisture and confirm the drying progress. 

6. Prevent Mold Growth

Once the water is removed, the next big threat is mold. Mold thrives in damp environments and can cause serious health issues, particularly for those with allergies or respiratory conditions. A professional water damage restoration company will not only dry your home but also apply treatments to inhibit mold growth and monitor moisture levels to ensure your home is completely dry.

Water Damage Restoration - Dallas, GA

When you check off these steps to take immediately following water damage, be sure that the water damage restoration company you call is Restoration 1 of NW Cobb. We will respond to your situation as soon as possible and begin the necessary work to mitigate the damage and restore your home.