Water damage restoration
When water gets into floors, walls or cabinets, the goal is to get it out and get things dry. Here’s what that usually involves.
Local help line coming soon. Until it opens: shut off the water at the main valve, turn off power to wet rooms if it is safe, take photos for insurance, and call your insurance company. Never wade into standing water near outlets.
What a restoration company usually does
- Finds the source and makes sure it’s stopped.
- Removes standing water with pumps and extractors.
- Checks for hidden moisture with meters, behind walls and under floors.
- Dries the structure with air movers and dehumidifiers, checking progress over several days.
- Removes what can’t be saved, like soaked padding or drywall.
- Documents the job with photos and readings you can share with your insurer.
Clean water vs. dirty water
Water from a supply line is handled differently from water from a toilet overflow, sewer backup or outside flooding. Dirty water needs more cleaning and more material removed. Tell the company where the water came from.
What to do right now
- If it’s safe, shut off the main water valve.
- Turn off power to wet rooms if you can reach the breaker without standing in water.
- Move valuables and furniture off wet floors.
- Take photos for your insurance company.
- Get a restoration company out quickly. Drying work usually goes better the sooner it starts.
What to ask the company
- How soon can you come out?
- Will you give me a written estimate?
- How do you work with my insurance company?
- What do I need to throw out, and what can be saved?
Please note: This website is a free referral service, not a contractor. We connect you with an independent restoration company that serves your area. That company gives the estimate, does the work, and is responsible for it. We may be paid by the company for the referral. You are never charged by us. Read the full disclosure.
Water where it shouldn’t be?
Here is what to do first.
Local help line coming soon. Until it opens: shut off the water at the main valve, turn off power to wet rooms if it is safe, take photos for insurance, and call your insurance company. Never wade into standing water near outlets.