Whatever caused it, a burst pipe, an overflowing appliance, a sewer backup or storm water, the first day after water damage matters more than any other. What you do in those hours decides how much can be dried and saved and how much has to be torn out. This checklist covers the priorities in order. For local help and every service, see our page on water damage restoration around Kennesaw.
Hours 0 to 1: safety and the source
- Electrical: the CDC advises never turning power on or off, or using an electric tool or appliance, while standing in water. Shut off breakers from a dry spot or call an electrician.
- Gas: if you smell gas, leave and call the gas company or 911 from outside.
- Structure: stay out from under sagging ceilings. The CDC says not to reenter a flood-damaged home until a building inspector has examined it.
- The source: shut off the water for plumbing failures. For sewage, stop using water. For storm water, stay out of it.
Hours 1 to 3: identify the water and document
Restoration professionals sort water into three categories under the IICRC S500 standard: clean water from a supply line, gray water such as washing machine discharge, and black water such as sewage or floodwater from outside. The category decides what can be saved and what protective gear is needed, so tell the contractor what you know. Then photograph and video everything before anything is moved or thrown out. Georgia's insurance commissioner's office advises photographing all damage and saving every receipt.
Hours 3 to 6: make the calls
- Your insurance company: report the loss and ask what it needs from you.
- A plumber, if a pipe, fixture or water heater failed.
- A water damage restoration contractor for water removal and drying.
- Your HOA or landlord, if you live in a townhome, condo or rental.
Hours 6 to 24: water out, drying started
Standing water should be extracted, saturated carpet pad and insulation removed, and air movers and dehumidifiers set up with a first round of moisture readings. The EPA says water-damaged areas and items should be dried within 24 to 48 hours to prevent mold growth, so the goal by the end of day one is for drying to be well underway. Read more about structural drying.
What not to do
- Don't use a household vacuum on water, or plug fans into outlets in wet areas.
- Don't throw out damaged items before they're photographed and listed for the claim.
- Don't try to clean up sewage or floodwater without protective gear.
- Don't open windows to dry the house on a humid day, which can add moisture.
- Don't sign a contract you haven't read, even in a hurry.
Day two and beyond
Expect the contractor to return daily to take readings and adjust equipment. Drying often takes several days. Once materials reach their drying goals, repairs can start. Keep a folder of photos, receipts, estimates and every conversation with your insurer. For the full process, read how water damage restoration works, step by step.