Water damage can come out of nowhere, whether from a flood, sewage backup, or burst pipe. Like any other damage, water can also lead to structural problems, mold growth, and costly repairs if it’s not cleaned up immediately.
In this guide, we’ll explain the 7 steps to take after water damage and how Restoration Pros NY can help homeowners recover quickly and safely from Long Island water damage.
7 Steps to Take After Water Damage When Every Minute Counts
When faced with water damage, following these steps can help reduce long-term problems and speed up the restoration process.
Cut Off the Water Source
If you’re dealing with a burst pipe, overflowing sink, or leaking appliance, turn off the main water supply immediately. This will help you prevent further flooding and additional damage to your property. If this isn’t the case, and flooding was caused by a storm or sewage backup, try to keep the damage contained to the affected area.
Turn Off Electricity in Damaged Zones
Whichever of the common causes of water damage has struck your home, it is dangerous if mixed with electricity. If water has reached electrical outlets, appliances, or wiring, switch the power off in those areas to prevent electrical hazards. If you are not sure how to do this safely, contact an electrician before going back inside the flooded space.
Keep Your Valuables in a Safe Place
If it is safe to do so, move valuable items such as documents, electronics, and furniture to a dry room that water didn’t reach. Doing this can save your belongings and reduce the risk of mold growth on porous materials.
Protect Yourself from Contaminated Water
As there are different categories of water damage, there are also different levels of contamination in water, and some situations can put your health at risk:
- Category 1 (Clean Water): From burst pipes or appliance leaks, and it’s generally safe but can cause mold growth if ignored.
- Category 2 (Gray Water): Contains minor contaminants from sources like washing machines, dishwashers, or toilet overflows (without feces).
- Category 3 (Black Water): Highly contaminated water from sewage backups, flooding, or stagnant water, carrying bacteria and hazardous substances.
If damage in your home involves gray or black water, don’t forget to wear protective gloves, boots, and a mask before starting the cleanup process. In these cases, professional restoration is strongly recommended, as leaving water damage untreated can lead to serious health hazards.
Start Removing Standing Water
Using wet vacuums, mops, and towels, begin extracting excess water from the flooded areas. If there is more water than you can take on, avoid using electrical appliances to remove water unless it is safe. It may be necessary to have a professional come in with advanced pumps and dehumidifiers to completely dry the area.
Open Windows and Use Fans (If Safe)
Ventilation helps speed up the drying process and reduces humidity levels that contribute to mold growth. If the weather is good enough, open windows and doors, and use fans or dehumidifiers in the affected areas.
Contact a Professional Water Damage Restoration Company
You may wonder: “How quickly should I respond to water damage?” Time is of the essence when dealing with water damage, so you should take action immediately. Within 24-48 hours, mold can begin to grow, and structural damage can become worse.
Why Restoration Pros NY Should Be Your First Call
At Restoration Pros NY, we specialize in fast and effective water damage restoration services in Long Island. Whether you’re dealing with a flood, sewage backup, burst pipe, or leaking appliance, our team is available 24/7 to step in immediately.
We use state-of-the-art equipment and proven restoration techniques to handle any water damage emergency. No matter the size of the disaster, we are here to help you recover quickly and safely.
Our services include:
- Emergency Water Extraction: We work fast to remove standing water and prevent further damage.
- Structural Drying and Dehumidification: Our experts eliminate excess moisture to stop mold growth.
- Sewage Cleanup and Sanitization: We disinfect contaminated areas thoroughly.
- Mold Prevention and Remediation: Our mold removal specialists make sure your home remains mold-free.
- Full Restoration and Repairs: We restore damaged floors, walls, and furniture to their pre-loss condition.
Call Restoration Pros NY for Immediate Help
If you’re dealing with water damage, a sewage backup, or flooding in Long Island, don’t wait for the damage to spread! The longer water sits, the more damage it can cause. Call our team at (631) 478-3672 now for expert water damage restoration services, or fill out this form for a free estimate. Trust us to provide fast, reliable, and professional service whenever a water disaster catches you off guard!
