Water damage: what to do in the first 24 hours

First 15 minutes: safety and the source

• Make sure everyone is out of danger. Keep children and pets away from standing water.
• Do not touch electrical items or the panel while standing in water. If water is near wiring or outlets, stay out and call for help.
• Stop the source: the main water valve, an appliance valve, or the water heater supply.

First hour: document and protect

• Take photos and video of the water, the source and everything damaged. Make a list of items affected.
• Move small valuables, papers, electronics and medications to a dry place.
• Lift furniture legs off wet carpet, or put foil or plastic under them to stop stains.
• Call for help. A restoration company can start water removal and drying right away.

First day: start drying

• Open windows and run fans if the air outside is drier than inside. In humid weather, use a dehumidifier instead.
• Remove wet rugs and soaked items that you can safely carry out.
• Do not use a household vacuum on water, and do not use electronics while wet.
• Tell your insurer. Ask what they expect, and keep every receipt for emergency work.

Why 24 to 48 hours

The EPA advises drying water-damaged areas and items within 24 to 48 hours to prevent mold growth, and says wet or damp materials dried within that window will not grow mold in most cases. After that, the risk rises (EPA guidance). Athens is humid, so materials that stay damp can take a long time to dry without equipment.

What to keep for the insurance claim

• Photos and video from before cleanup
• A list of damaged items, with ages and approximate values
• Receipts for emergency repairs and equipment
• The restoration company's written scope and moisture readings
• Damaged items, if the adjuster wants to see them, unless they are a health hazard

When water is not clean

Water from a toilet or sewer backup, or floodwater that rose from outside, can be contaminated. Treat it as unsafe, avoid contact and read our page on sewage backup cleanup.