The short answer
First, stay safe: keep away from water near outlets and turn off power to the wet area if you can reach the breaker from a dry spot. Then shut off the main water valve, photograph the damage, move furniture and valuables to a dry room, and call a water damage company. The EPA advises drying wet materials within 24 to 48 hours.
The first hour
- Be safe
Stay out of water near power. Turn off the breaker from a dry spot.
- Shut off the water
Close the main valve or the valve at the fixture.
- Photograph everything
Rooms, the source and damaged items, before you move them.
- Lift and move
Raise furniture on foil or blocks, move rugs and valuables out.
- Call for drying
Extraction and dehumidifiers within the 24 to 48 hour window.
Do not
- Use a household vacuum on water
- Turn on ceiling fans or lights under a wet ceiling
- Run heat on a wet hardwood floor
- Wait to see if it dries on its own
Garland water damage questions
How long can water sit before mold grows?
The EPA advises drying wet materials within 24 to 48 hours to prevent mold growth. After that, the risk climbs quickly, especially in a warm house.
Is it safe to stay in the house?
Usually, if the power is safe and the water was clean. Leave if water is near the electrical panel, the ceiling is sagging, or the water came from sewage.
Do I need a plumber or a restoration company?
Often both. A plumber fixes the pipe or appliance. A restoration company removes water, dries the structure and repairs the damage.
Water in the house right now?
Call and tell us what leaked and which rooms are wet. Prefer to write? Send the form and we call you back.
(945) 222-5303- Serving Garland, Rowlett, Sachse, Richardson, Mesquite, Wylie, Murphy
- Free written estimate before any work starts