Water Damage Emergency Tips

What you can do until help arrives

Water Tips  |  Fire Tips   |  Biohazard Tips   |  Mold Tips

Anything wet can start developing serious problems like mold after about 24 hours so it's key to working quickly.

Mold and Mildew Inspection

Mold can be very damaging to the contents it infests and some mold is toxic to humans. When you find small mold issues, cut the infested material out and throw it away immediately. Should you find more severe infestations of mold, evacuate the area and cut-off any airflow and call SERVPRO of Phoenix for mold remediation and removal.

Mold can and does infest areas that are hidden like under floors and behind walls so the whole process of water damage restoration and mold remediation will need to be ongoing. Open all the windows and doors so the ventilation will improve. Remove any drywall, insulation and ceiling that has been affected by the water damage. Remove any affected wooden material to wipe down and dry out somewhere else. 

Place things like pictures and important documents that may have been affected in resealable bags and store them in the freezer to clean later. Be sure to make a detailed list of all the water damage and take photos and even some video. 

Water Damage Repair and Restoration Professionals

Certified water damage restoration technicians are well equipped and experienced in a variety of water damage situations and understand what needs to happen and when. SERVPRO of Phoenix also provides reconstruction building services for any structural damage.

Have A  Water Damage Emergency? Call (480) 503-2090

What To Do After Flooding

  • Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
  • Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
  • Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
  • Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
  • Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.
  • Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
  • Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
  • Gather loose items from floors.

What NOT To Do After Flooding

  • Don't leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
  • Don't leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.
  • Don't use your household vacuum to remove water.
  • Don't use television or other household appliances.
  • Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging.