What to Do Immediately After Water Damage in Your Home

Water damage is one of those things homeowners hope they never have to deal with—but when it hits, it hits hard. Whether it’s a burst pipe, a basement flood, an overflowing appliance, or storm damage, water in your home can cause chaos.

In a matter of minutes, your flooring can warp, drywall can soak through, and your cherished belongings can be at risk. It’s not just about the mess. It’s about the emotional toll, the financial burden, and the uncertainty of what comes next.

Here’s the good news: while water damage may feel overwhelming in the moment, you don’t have to face it alone, and the road to water damage restoration may be more manageable than it seems.

With quick action, smart steps, and the right team by your side, you can protect your home, your health, and your peace of mind.

Let’s walk through exactly what you need to do immediately after water damage strikes your home!

Step 1: Stop the Source If It’s Safe

The first step is to stop the flow of water, only if it’s safe to do so.

If a pipe has burst, turn off your home’s main water supply. If an appliance, such as a washer or dishwasher, is overflowing, unplug it or turn off its water valve.

If the damage is due to rainwater or flooding, your options may be more limited, but any action to minimize further water intrusion can help. If there’s any risk of electrical hazards, structural instability, or contaminated water, evacuate the area and wait for professional help. It’s never worth risking your health or safety.

Step 2: Document the Damage for Insurance

Once the immediate threat is under control, take clear photos and videos of the affected areas. This is crucial for insurance claims, and the more thorough your documentation, the smoother the process will be.

Here’s what you’ll need to capture:

• Wide shots of the entire affected space
• Close-ups of damaged floors, walls, furniture, and personal items
• Water lines or visible pooling
• Images of the source (if visible)
• Make sure to note the date and time.

After you’ve documented everything, contact your insurance provider to start the claims process and find out what’s covered.

Step 3: Remove Valuable Items

If it’s safe to enter the affected area, remove any valuable items that haven’t yet been damaged. This includes electronics, documents, keepsakes, and furniture.

Remember, the faster you act, the more you can preserve.

Important Tip: Avoid walking through standing water if you’re unsure about its source or depth, especially if the power is still on.

Step 4: Call a Local Restoration Professional (Fast)

When it comes to water damage, time is everything. The longer water sits, the more it seeps into your home’s structure, increasing the risk of mold, rot, and major repair costs.

That’s why your next call should be to a local water damage restoration company like CCS Cleaning & Restoration. We’re based in southern Minnesota, and we’re on call 24/7 to handle water emergencies the moment they happen.

Here’s how we can help you in a time of need:

• Assess the situation and develop a plan
• Extract standing water using professional-grade equipment
• Begin drying and dehumidification to stop further damage
• Sanitize and restore affected areas to pre-loss condition

With fast action and expert care, we help minimize damage, reduce costs, and give you peace of mind from the moment we arrive!

Why DIY Water Cleanup Can Be Risky

We get it. When disaster strikes, some homeowners want to jump into cleanup mode.

But DIY water damage cleanup can actually make things worse.

Here are a few reasons why we don’t recommend DIY cleanup:

• Household fans aren’t enough to fully dry soaked walls or flooring
• Moisture trapped behind surfaces can lead to hidden mold growth
• Improper removal of contaminated water can put your health at risk
• Insurance claims can be denied if proper procedures aren’t followed

Remember, professional restoration isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessary step in protecting your home and health long-term.

Call CCS for 24/7 Water Damage Help in Southern Minnesota!

At CCS Cleaning & Restoration, we specialize in fast, effective, and compassionate water damage restoration services for homeowners across southern Minnesota.

Whether it’s a small leak or a major flood, we’re ready to respond — anytime, anywhere.

Don’t wait another minute. Contact CCS Cleaning & Restoration today and let us help restore your home and peace of mind!