First 24 Hours After Water Damage Checklist

IMMEDIATE (First 15 Minutes)

STOP - Ensure your safety first. Do not enter standing water if power is on.CRITICALShut off the main water supply to stop the sourceCRITICALTurn off electricity at the breaker if water is near outlets or appliancesCRITICALTurn off gas if you smell it or suspect a leakCRITICALOpen windows to ventilate (if weather permits)

DOCUMENT (First 30 Minutes)

Take photos and video of ALL damage before moving anythingCRITICALPhotograph the water source/cause if visibleDocument serial numbers of damaged appliancesNote the time and date the damage was discoveredSave any receipts for emergency supplies or repairs

PROTECT (First 1-2 Hours)

Move furniture and valuables out of affected areasCRITICALLift curtains and drapes off wet floorsRemove rugs and mats from wet areasProp up furniture on blocks or foil to prevent stainingRemove electronics from water exposure immediatelyCRITICALRelocate important documents, photos, and irreplaceable items

CALL FOR HELP (Within 2-4 Hours)

Call your insurance company to report the claimCRITICALWrite down your claim numberCall a professional water damage restoration companyCRITICALAsk about emergency tarping for roof leaks if applicableContact your landlord if renting

BEGIN WATER REMOVAL (Hours 2-12)

Use mops, towels, and buckets to remove standing waterUse a wet/dry vacuum if available (NOT a regular vacuum)Start fans and dehumidifiers if you have themOpen closet doors and cabinet doors to aid dryingRemove wet insulation from attics or crawl spaces

ONGOING (Hours 12-24)

Continue running fans and dehumidifiersMonitor for mold growth (can start in 24-48 hours)CRITICALDo NOT turn on ceiling fixtures in wet roomsCRITICALAvoid using household appliances that got wetKeep a log of all actions taken and expenses incurredFollow up with insurance if no adjuster has been assigned

First 24 Hours After Water Damage

IMMEDIATE (First 15 Minutes)

DOCUMENT (First 30 Minutes)

PROTECT (First 1-2 Hours)

CALL FOR HELP (Within 2-4 Hours)

BEGIN WATER REMOVAL (Hours 2-12)

ONGOING (Hours 12-24)

DO NOT DO (Common Mistakes)

Insurance Claim Tips

Before the Adjuster Arrives:

What to Ask Your Insurer:

Your Notes

More Free Resources

Texas Water Damage Guide

DFW Water Shut-Off Directory

DFW Restore Guys - Here When You Need Us