What to do first after water damage

First, decide whether it is safe to enter.

Keep people away from standing water near electricity, unstable ceilings and other hazards. Follow local emergency directions. Do not enter floodwater or a damaged area simply to take photos.

If there is immediate danger, contact emergency services. A restoration quote line is not an emergency response service.

Stop the source only when you can do so safely.

If you already know how to reach a safe shutoff for an indoor leak, stopping the flow may limit further damage. Do not touch electrical equipment while wet or standing in water. A plumber, utility or other qualified professional may be needed.

For suspected public water or sewer issues, use Charlotte Water: Fixes & Troubleshooting. For water entering from outside, review local conditions and wait for safe access.

Five details to share on a restoration call

1. Property: the full address, unit, ZIP and access details.
2. Timing: when you noticed the water and what changed.
3. Source: what you know, without guessing at an unseen cause.
4. Materials: rooms, floors, walls or ceilings visibly affected.
5. Work so far: source repair, extraction or equipment already used.

Take photos from safe locations and keep relevant receipts. Contact your insurer promptly about its documentation requirements.

Ask what the first visit includes.

Confirm the provider’s identity, assessment charge, address eligibility, likely arrival window and who can authorize work. Ask whether the written scope will separate source repair, water removal, drying and rebuilding.

EPA advises acting promptly on wet materials, including drying within 24–48 hours when possible to help prevent mold. This is not a promise that every structure can be fully dried in that period. EPA: A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture and Your Home.

Water removal, drying and repairs: what comes next?

• Standing water removal: what needs to be removed now?
• Drying: what remains wet and how will it be measured?
• Work authorization: which tasks and charges are actually included?
• Insurance: what does your insurer require?