It always seems to start the same way. A strange sound near the sink. A slight squish underfoot. Or worse, a flood pouring in during a storm. Water damage isn’t something most people plan for—but when it happens, what you do next matters a lot.
Whether it’s a burst pipe, a leaking appliance, or a weather event, water doesn’t wait. It spreads fast and damages faster. If you’re standing ankle-deep in your living room, you’re not alone. Homeowners and business owners across the U.S. deal with this every day, especially during storm season.
But there’s a way forward.
If your bedroom or living room has been soaked, the first thing you might need is a reliable mattress cleaning service in Sandy. Why? Because mattresses absorb moisture fast and can become breeding grounds for mold if not cleaned properly and quickly.
Let’s walk through exactly what to do when water strikes your home or business—and how to recover safely, quickly, and smartly.
Step 1: Stay Safe and Assess the Scene
Before grabbing towels or turning on fans, stop and look. Is it safe to be in the space?
- If you see water near electrical outlets or wires, turn off power from the main breaker before stepping in.
- If the flooding is caused by sewage or unknown sources, wear gloves and avoid direct contact.
- For heavy flooding, consider evacuating and calling professionals for assistance.
It’s tempting to try and save things immediately, but safety has to come first.
Step 2: Stop the Water at the Source
If the water is still flowing, find the source and shut it off.
- For burst pipes, locate the main water shut-off valve and turn it off right away.
- If it’s an appliance like a washer or dishwasher, unplug it and turn off its water supply.
Time counts here. Every minute saved reduces long-term damage.
Step 3: Start Removing Water
Now it’s time to get the water out. The method depends on how much water you’re dealing with:
- Small leaks or puddles: Use towels, mops, and a wet/dry vacuum if you have one.
- Large-scale flooding: Rent a water pump or call a water removal service.
Focus on drying the area quickly. Open windows if the weather allows. Run fans and dehumidifiers to speed up the drying process.
Step 4: Save What You Can
Grab anything that can be safely removed from the wet area. This includes:
- Furniture
- Rugs
- Electronics
- Clothing
- Personal items
Lay items out to dry in a clean, dry space. For electronics or expensive furniture, avoid turning things on or using them until a professional evaluates them.
Step 5: Check for Hidden Damage
Once the visible water is gone, it’s time to check what lies beneath. Moisture hides behind walls, under flooring, and inside cabinets.
If left untreated, this can lead to:
- Mold growth
- Wood rot
- Structural weakening
A moisture meter is helpful, but if you don’t have one, it’s best to bring in a professional restoration service. Many companies offer free inspections.
Step 6: Clean and Disinfect
Floodwater, especially if it came from outside or a plumbing line, can carry bacteria and chemicals.
Clean all surfaces that came into contact with the water:
- Use hot water and soap first.
- Follow up with a disinfectant.
- Pay close attention to kitchen surfaces, children’s play areas, and pet zones.
Soft items like carpets, curtains, and mattresses can hold onto bacteria even after they feel dry. In these cases, professional cleaning is often safer and more effective.
Step 7: Prevent Mold Before It Grows
Mold starts forming within 24 to 48 hours in damp environments. Even if everything looks dry, mold might be starting where you can’t see.
Tips to prevent mold:
- Keep air moving with fans and open windows.
- Run dehumidifiers for several days.
- Remove anything that can’t be dried within 48 hours (like soaked drywall or insulation).
If you notice a musty smell, don’t ignore it. It’s often the first sign mold is taking hold behind walls or under floors.
Step 8: Document Everything for Insurance
Before you throw anything out or start repairs, take photos and videos of the damage. Insurance companies need proof.
- Photograph every damaged area and item.
- Keep receipts for repairs, cleanup, and replacements.
- Note dates and details about what happened and when.
File your insurance claim as soon as possible, and stay in touch with your adjuster to speed up the process.
Step 9: Plan for Repairs and Restoration
Once everything is clean and dry, you’ll likely need to make repairs. This could mean anything from replacing drywall and repainting to reinstalling flooring.
You may also want to upgrade materials to ones that handle moisture better—such as tile flooring or water-resistant drywall.
If the damage was in a commercial space, consider updating your emergency plan or maintenance schedule. Many commercial cleaning services in South Jordan, UT offer recurring deep cleaning options to prevent build-up and moisture problems before they start.
FAQs About Water Damage Recovery
What if water got under my hardwood floors?
Hardwood is especially vulnerable. It can warp or crack. If caught early, drying mats and dehumidifiers might save it. If it’s buckling, you’ll likely need to replace some boards.
Can I just use bleach to stop mold?
Bleach works on hard, non-porous surfaces. It won’t work well on wood, drywall, or fabrics. And it doesn’t remove mold spores completely. Professional cleaning is usually better.
Do I need to replace my carpet?
If carpet is soaked for more than 24 hours, replacement is often the safest route. Padding underneath holds moisture and becomes a mold risk.
Will my insurance cover all of this?
It depends. Most standard policies cover sudden, accidental damage like burst pipes. Flooding from natural disasters might need separate flood insurance.
Can I dry out walls without removing drywall?
Sometimes, yes. If caught early, professionals can use wall cavity drying systems. But if drywall is soft or crumbling, it needs to be replaced.
Final Thoughts
Water damage can feel overwhelming, but taking quick action can make all the difference. Prioritize safety, act fast, and don’t hesitate to call in help when needed.
Whether it’s your home or your business, recovery is possible—and often faster than you’d expect when you know what steps to take.
Keep this guide handy and remember: every dry space starts with one good decision.