What to Do in the First 24 Hours After Water Damage in Your Home

IMMEDIATE WATER DAMAGE STEPS FOR SPOKANE & NORTH IDAHO

Safety, Damage Control, and What to Do Next

Water damage is one of those “how is this real life right now?” moments. It’s overwhelming, it spreads fast, and the clock starts ticking immediately. The first 24 hours are critical for reducing damage, protecting your health, and preventing issues like mold growth and structural deterioration.

This guide covers what to do right away—how to prioritize safety, stop the water source, document damage for insurance, begin safe drying, and recognize when it’s time to call professionals.

WHY IMMEDIATE ACTIONS ARE CRITICAL AFTER WATER DAMAGE

Prevent Mold, Reduce Repairs, and Protect Your Home

Water doesn’t politely stay in one place. It seeps into drywall, flooring, insulation, baseboards, cabinets, and structural materials. If it isn’t removed quickly, the damage expands—and so does the cost to fix it.

How water damage leads to mold growth and health risks

Moisture creates ideal conditions for mold, which can begin developing within 24 to 48 hours. Mold spores thrive in damp environments and may trigger respiratory irritation, allergic reactions, and other health concerns—especially for kids, older adults, and anyone with asthma or sensitivities. Drying affected areas quickly is one of the best ways to reduce risk.

The structural and property impacts of delayed response

Waiting too long can lead to sagging ceilings, warped flooring, rotting wood, and weakened walls. In severe cases, water can compromise foundational elements and create hidden damage behind surfaces. Fast action protects the integrity of your home and can keep a manageable situation from turning into a full rebuild.

HOW TO PRIORITIZE SAFETY IN THE FIRST 24 HOURS

Utilities, Structural Checks, and Personal Protection

Before you start cleanup, make sure the space is safe to enter. Water damage can introduce electrical hazards, contaminated water, and unstable building materials.

Which utilities should be turned off to prevent hazards?

If you can do so safely, shut off these utilities to reduce risk:

• Electricity: Turn off power at the main breaker to prevent shocks or electrical fire risk.
• Gas: Shut off the gas supply if water has reached appliances or you suspect a leak.
• Water supply: Stop the main water line to prevent continued flooding.

How to assess structural integrity and avoid electrical dangers

• Look for sagging ceilings, bulging drywall, or warped walls and floors.
• Identify pooled water areas—heavy saturation can weaken materials.
• Wear protective gear: gloves, boots, and a mask if contamination or debris is present.
• Avoid stepping into water if outlets, cords, or electrical panels may be affected.

STOP AND CONTROL THE WATER SOURCE IMMEDIATELY

Prevent More Damage Before Cleanup Starts

The fastest way to reduce loss is to stop the water source. Sometimes it’s obvious. Sometimes it’s a sneaky little drip that turned into a big problem behind a wall.

How to identify common water damage sources

• Burst pipes: Sudden water flow, new pooling, wet drywall, or water sounds inside walls.
• Leaking appliances: Check around washing machines, refrigerators, dishwashers, and water heaters.
• Roof leaks: Look for ceiling stains, attic dampness, or dripping after storms or snowmelt.

Temporary measures to halt water flow safely

• Use towels and buckets to catch drips and reduce spread.
• Apply waterproof tape to small leaks as a very short-term patch.
• If flooding is active or the source is unclear, contact a water damage restoration company immediately.

DOCUMENT WATER DAMAGE FOR INSURANCE CLAIMS

Photos, Video, and Inventory That Actually Help

Documentation is one of the most important steps you can take early. It supports your claim, reduces confusion, and helps prove the scope of damage.

What types of photos and videos best capture damage evidence?

• Take wide shots of each room to show the overall impact.
• Take close-ups of damaged materials, stains, swelling, and wet contents.
• Record a walkthrough video from the entry point through every affected area.

Create a detailed inventory and keep records

• List damaged items: furniture, rugs, electronics, clothing, children’s items, and stored goods.
• Keep receipts for emergency supplies and temporary fixes.
• Save all emails, claim numbers, estimates, and restoration documentation in one place.

WHEN TO CONTACT PROFESSIONALS AND YOUR INSURANCE COMPANY

Know When DIY Stops Being Smart

Some water damage is manageable. Some water damage is “this needs equipment and a plan.” The trick is knowing which one you’re in before mold and structural issues have time to show up.

When you need a certified water damage restoration company

• The affected area is large or water has entered walls, floors, insulation, or ceilings.
• The water may be contaminated (gray water or sewage).
• You suspect mold growth or cannot dry the area quickly.
• There is any electrical risk or structural instability.

How to notify your insurance provider promptly

• Share what happened and when it started (as best as you know).
• Provide photos, videos, and your inventory list.
• Give contact details and keep notes on who you spoke with.

INITIAL WATER REMOVAL AND DRYING YOU CAN SAFELY PERFORM

Remove Standing Water and Start Drying Fast

Once the source is controlled and the area is safe, water removal and drying should begin immediately. Your goal is to reduce moisture fast, increase airflow, and keep humidity low.

How to remove standing water and increase airflow

• Use a wet/dry vacuum to remove standing water (only if the water is not contaminated and power is safe).
• Set up fans to move air across wet surfaces and toward exits.
• Use dehumidifiers to reduce indoor humidity and speed drying.
• Open windows when weather allows, but avoid bringing in damp outside air.

Precautions to prevent mold during drying and disinfection

• Keep indoor humidity below 50% when possible.
• Clean hard surfaces with water and detergent.
• Check daily for musty smells, spotting, or new discoloration.
• Remove and discard porous items that cannot be dried quickly.

COMMON WATER DAMAGE SOURCES & CONTROL MEASURES

Quick Reference Table

HELP AFTER WATER DAMAGE IN SPOKANE & NORTH IDAHO

Fast Mitigation Helps Prevent Bigger Problems

The first 24 hours matter. If you’re dealing with active water, soaked materials, or damage you can’t fully see yet, it’s smart to bring in trained restoration professionals with proper drying and moisture monitoring equipment.

At ServiceMaster by Compass, our team helps homeowners stabilize water loss quickly, dry and dehumidify the structure, and prevent avoidable secondary damage.