First 24 hours after water damage
The first day after a leak or burst matters more than the next ten. Move fast, document everything, leave the rest to us.
What you'll learn
- How to safely shut off water at the main valve before damage spreads
- What to photograph for the insurance claim (and what adjusters need to see)
- Why removing standing water immediately matters more than anything else
- What NOT to touch (electrical, sewage, ceiling drywall that is sagging)
Step by step
- Shut off water at the main shutoff if the leak is active.
- Cut power to wet rooms at the breaker if water is near outlets.
- Photograph everything, wide shots, close-ups of damage, source of water.
- Remove what you can carry to a dry area (rugs, electronics, papers).
- Call your restoration company. Then call your insurance carrier.
Safety note
Standing water doubles the damage every hour. Do not wait until morning if a leak happens at night.
Rather have a pro handle it?
We connect you with a vetted water damage restoration pro across San Diego County. Call any time.
More guides
Keep learning.
Safety · 6 min watch
How to prevent mold after a water leak
Mold needs three things: moisture, organic material, and time. Take away the moisture in 48 hours and you starve the chain.
Basics · 7 min watch
How to file a water damage insurance claim
What adjusters need from you, what claims get pushed back, and how to document so coverage gets approved.
Troubleshooting · 5 min watch
When to replace water-damaged drywall (vs. dry it in place)
Some wet drywall saves with proper drying. Some has to come out. The difference is the water category and how long it sat wet.