FAQ > Water Damage Questions > What should I do if I have a water damage at my home or business?
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DO:
- Have a professional plumbing contractor eliminate the water source.
- Call a professional water damage restoration company immediately for help! Damage from water and bacteria growth can begin within just a few hours.
- Remove as much water as possible from floors by mopping or blotting with clean white towels.
- Turn off circuit breakers supplying electricity to wet areas if appropriate. Unplug and remove any small electrical devices located on wet carpet or other wet surfaces.
- Remove wet area rugs or other floor coverings that are not attached. Do not remove wall-to-wall carpet.
- Hang draperies and pin up furniture skirts to prevent contact with wet carpet.
- Wipe furniture and prop up wet cushions for even drying.
- Place aluminum foil under legs of wood furniture (especially antiques).
- Remove small furniture items to prevent rust or stains and to expedite restoration.
- Remove books, shoes, paper goods, fabrics, potted plants and other items that may stain the carpet (be sure to check under the beds and in closets).
- Move photos, paintings, art and any high-value items to a safe, dry location.
- Open drawers and closet and cabinet doors to speed the drying process.
- Make plans for a restoration crew to move large furniture items onto dry carpet, linoleum, garage or storage area.
DON’T:
- Don’t use your home vacuum because electrical shock may result as well as damage to the vacuum.
- Don’t use TV’s or other appliances on wet carpet or floors.
- Don’t place newspaper in the traffic areas because the ink transfers easily.
- Don’t walk on wet carpet more than necessary in order to keep from spreading damage.
- Don’t activate the HVAC system if it has been directly contacted by the water or it may spread contamination.
- Don’t disturb visible mold.
Last updated on January 4, 2012 by Champion