Water Damage 101
Why the First 48 Hours Matter Most

  Water damage can happen fast—a burst pipe, overflowing toilet, leaky roof, or appliance failure can turn into a soaked floor and ruined walls in just hours. The damage might look minimal at first, but what happens in the next 48 hours determines whether you’ll face mold, rot, or long-term structural issues.
 

  Here’s why timing is everything—and what you should do right away.

​

1. Turn Off the Water Source Immediately
 

  If water is still coming in, find the main shutoff valve and stop the flow. For small leaks, shutting off the localized supply may be enough (under a sink or behind a toilet), but for major issues, turn off the water to the whole property. If there’s any risk of electrical hazards, shut off power to affected areas as well.
 

  Once it’s safe, call a professional water damage response team. Even if the water seems manageable, unseen moisture can cause hidden damage within walls, flooring, and insulation.

 

2. Drying Starts Immediately
 

  Mold can begin to grow within 24–48 hours of water exposure. Even if surfaces feel dry, moisture can still linger inside materials. That’s why professional equipment, like air movers, dehumidifiers, and moisture meters, is critical. These tools help dry out hidden areas that might otherwise be missed.
 

  The sooner drying begins, the lower your risk of:
 

• Mold and mildew

 

• Wood warping

 

• Drywall disintegration

 

• Insulation breakdown

 

• Odor and bacterial buildup​

 

3. Don’t Rely on Fans or Towels Alone

  Many homeowners try to clean up with shop vacs, mops, and box fans. While this may help surface water, it won’t address trapped moisture under floors, inside walls, or behind cabinetry. Using consumer-grade equipment often gives a false sense of completion, leading to mold growth weeks later.
 

  Professional water damage teams use moisture detection tools to identify exactly where water has spread and confirm when the area is truly dry.

 

4. Take Photos and Document Everything
 

  Start taking pictures right away—before and after any cleanup. Your insurance provider will need visual proof of damage for your claim. Include wide shots of affected rooms and close-ups of furniture, walls, flooring, or belongings.

  Keep receipts for anything you purchase during cleanup (like fans, replacement parts, or temporary lodging) and make a note of when the incident occurred. Restoration professionals can also provide detailed reports to support your claim.

 

5. Remove Valuables, But Be Careful
 

  Remove items that are still dry and safe to carry, especially electronics, paperwork, and anything irreplaceable. Avoid walking through standing water if there's a risk of electrical shock or sewage exposure. If you're unsure, wait for professionals to clear the area.
 

  For wet items like rugs or clothing, lay them out to dry, but avoid placing them directly on carpet or hardwood floors—they could cause staining or further damage.

​

6. Inspect for Secondary Damage
 

  Even after cleanup, water damage can leave behind issues that appear days or weeks later. These include:

 

• Swelling in drywall or wood

 

• Bubbling or peeling paint

 

• Warped floorboards

 

• Musty odors

  Have a follow-up inspection within a week of the incident to catch any delayed signs of damage. Restoration companies often monitor drying progress with equipment and return for follow-up visits.

 

Final Thoughts
 

  When it comes to water damage, acting fast makes all the difference. The first 48 hours are your best chance to avoid costly repairs and serious health risks like mold. Partnering with a professional cleanup crew ensures that the job is done thoroughly, documented properly, and handled safely, so your home can get back to normal sooner