What to Do in the First 24 Hours After Water Damage Hits Your Home
Water damage can happen fast—whether it’s from a burst pipe, heavy rain, or an overflowing appliance. But what you do in the first 24 hours can make all the difference in how much damage your home suffers, how safe your environment remains, and how smoothly your insurance claim goes.
At Restoration Pros, we know how overwhelming water damage can feel. That’s why we’ve put together this simple guide to help you act quickly, safely, and effectively when the unexpected happens.
Step 1: Stay Safe and Shut Off the Source
Before anything else, make sure it’s safe to enter the affected area. If water is near electrical outlets or appliances, avoid contact and turn off the power if you can do so safely.
Then, locate and shut off the source of water:
For a burst pipe: Turn off your home’s main water supply.
For appliance overflow: Unplug the appliance and stop the water feed.
For roof leaks: Try to contain the drip with buckets or tarps until help arrives.
Safety should always come first—never walk into standing water if the power is still on.
Step 2: Document the Damage for Insurance
Before you start cleaning up, take clear photos and videos of the damage. Include:
Affected rooms and surfaces (floors, walls, ceilings)
Damaged personal belongings or furniture
The source of the water, if visible
This documentation is essential for insurance claims and can help speed up reimbursement. Don’t throw anything away yet—your adjuster may need to see it.
Step 3: Remove What You Can — But Don’t Start Tearing Things Out
If it’s safe, begin removing:
Rugs and loose items from wet floors
Electronics, papers, and valuables from affected areas
Curtains or soft furnishings that are soaked
However, avoid ripping up carpet, cutting drywall, or removing insulation yourself. Improper removal can spread contamination or worsen structural damage. Leave demolition and drying to professionals with the right tools and containment methods.
Step 4: Call a Water Damage Restoration Company (Like Us)
The faster professionals get involved, the better. Within just 24–48 hours, mold can begin to grow, and moisture can spread into walls, subfloors, and framing—causing long-term issues that may not be immediately visible.
At Restoration Pros, we offer:
24/7 emergency response
Moisture detection tools to find hidden water
Safe drying and dehumidification
Mold prevention measures
Insurance claim support
Calling us early ensures a faster, safer recovery—and can save you thousands in secondary damage.
Why Choose Us?
Fully IIcRC Certified Company
Every one of our service technicians has been trained and certified by the Institute Of Inspection, Cleaning, Restoration Certification (IICRC).
24/7 Emergency Services Available
Our local team is ready around the clock, day or night, because we know that disasters don’t wait for convenient hours.
Veteran + Female Owned & operated
Restoration Pros is a Veteran & Women owned and operated company built on strong principles that make your restoration process stress free.
Licensed, Bonded, & Insured
As Louisiana State Licensed Residential and Commercial Contractors, we’re equipped to handle all aspects of your project with skill and expertise.
Unbeatable Experience & Expertise
Our certified team has extensive experience, education and the expertise needed to clean up and restore any damage caused by water, fire, and mold.
Locally Owned & Operated
Restoration Pros is the foremost source for emergency restoration services in Lafayette. We've been serving our area for more than 20 years.
A+ Rating On Better Business Bureau
BBB Accreditation means that a company has been reviewed and approved to meet high standards in business regarding all things customer service.
We Work With All Insurance Providers
We’ll walk you through every step of the process and coordinate directly with your insurance company to make things as seamless as possible.
Local, Live Operators On Call 24/7
Our contractors are ready to assess the damage to your property and start a plan of action to get your property back to normal as quickly as possible.
Why Choose Us?
Fully IIcRC Certified Company
Every one of our service technicians has been trained and certified by the Institute Of Inspection, Cleaning, Restoration Certification (IICRC).
24/7 Emergency Services Available
Our local team is ready around the clock, day or night, because we know that disasters don’t wait for convenient hours.
Veteran + Female Owned & operated
Restoration Pros is a Veteran & Women owned and operated company built on strong principles that make your restoration process stress free.
Licensed, Bonded, & Insured
As Louisiana State Licensed Residential and Commercial Contractors, we’re equipped to handle all aspects of your project with skill and expertise.
Unbeatable Experience & Expertise
Our certified team has extensive experience, education and the expertise needed to clean up and restore any damage caused by water, fire, and mold.
Locally Owned & Operated
Restoration Pros is the foremost source for emergency restoration services in Lafayette. We've been serving our area for more than 20 years.
A+ Rating On Better Business Bureau
BBB Accreditation means that a company has been reviewed and approved to meet high standards in business regarding all things customer service.
We Work With All Insurance Providers
We’ll walk you through every step of the process and coordinate directly with your insurance company to make things as seamless as possible.
Local, Live Operators On Call 24/7
Our contractors are ready to assess the damage to your property and start a plan of action to get your property back to normal as quickly as possible.
Our Service Areas
We service all areas throughout Louisiana, including: