1. Stop the Source of the Water

If it’s safe to do so, your first priority should be stopping the water from continuing to enter your home.

This may mean:

• Turning off the home’s main water supply
• Shutting off a leaking appliance
• Placing a tarp over a roof leak until repairs can be made

The sooner the water is stopped, the less damage it can cause.

2. Stay Safe

Water and electricity don’t mix.

If water is near electrical outlets, appliances, or your breaker panel, avoid entering the affected area until it’s safe. In some cases, it may be necessary to shut off power to that portion of the home.

If the water appears contaminated—such as sewage backups or floodwater—avoid direct contact and call a professional restoration company immediately.

3. Document the Damage

Before moving furniture or beginning cleanup, take photos and videos of the affected areas.

Document:

• Flooring
• Walls
• Cabinets
• Furniture
• Electronics
• Personal belongings

These photos can be extremely helpful when working with your insurance company.

4. Call a Restoration Company Right Away

Many homeowners assume they can simply dry the visible water with towels or fans. Unfortunately, moisture often finds its way behind drywall, beneath flooring, and into insulation where it can’t be seen.

Professional restoration companies use specialized moisture meters, infrared cameras, commercial dehumidifiers, and air movers to locate and remove hidden moisture before mold has a chance to grow.

The faster restoration begins, the better.

5. Don’t Assume Everything Is Dry

Just because the floor feels dry doesn’t mean the structure is.

Water can remain trapped inside:

• Drywall
• Wood framing
• Cabinets
• Baseboards
• Flooring
• Insulation

Without proper drying equipment, hidden moisture can lead to mold growth, warped materials, and expensive repairs weeks or even months later.

6. Contact Your Insurance Company

If the damage may be covered, notify your insurance company as soon as possible.

Your restoration contractor can often help document the damage, provide estimates, and work directly with your insurance adjuster to help move the claim along.

7. Act Quickly

Time is one of the biggest factors in a successful restoration.

Within the first 24–48 hours:

• Drywall can begin absorbing significant moisture.
• Flooring may start to warp or buckle.
• Cabinets can swell.
• Mold can begin developing if conditions are right.

The sooner professionals begin drying the structure, the more materials can often be saved.

Trust Legacy Restoration When Every Minute Counts

Water damage is stressful, but you don’t have to handle it alone.

At Legacy Restoration, our experienced team responds quickly to assess the damage, remove excess water, thoroughly dry your home, and restore your property with care. From the initial emergency response to the final repairs, we’re committed to helping homeowners get back to normal as quickly as possible.

If you’ve experienced water damage, don’t wait. Contact Legacy Restoration today and let our team help protect your home before the damage gets worse.