Finding a water leak in your home can definitely be one of those “uh-oh” moments that makes your heart skip a beat. Whether it’s a tiny drip under the sink or a bigger issue coming from the ceiling, water damage is serious business. But don’t freak out! If you know what steps to take right away, you can stop the damage from getting worse and get your home back to dry and safe in no time.
Here’s what you should do if you ever find yourself in this situation:
1. Turn Off the Water Supply
The very first thing you should do when you find a leak is stop the water flow. This might seem obvious, but it’s easy to forget in the chaos. If you don’t know where your main water valve is, now is the time to locate it. The valve is typically near your water meter, or it may be in a basement or utility room. Shutting off the water supply will give you time to assess the situation without it getting worse.
2. Identify the Source of the Leak
Once the water flow is under control, try to find where the leak is coming from. If it’s easy to spot, you can try to contain the water by placing towels, buckets, or containers under the leak. However, some leaks can be hidden behind walls or ceilings, so don’t forget to check places like crawl spaces, attics, and under sinks. If you can’t find the source, it might be time to call a professional plumber who can help.
3. Turn Off Electricity (If Necessary)
If water’s close to any electrical outlets, appliances, or wires, you need to turn off the power right away. It’s all about safety—water and electricity don’t mix, and the last thing you want is an electrical shock. If you’re not sure if water’s affected any electrical systems, it’s a good idea to flip the main breaker off just to be safe. And if you’re feeling unsure about handling it yourself, don’t hesitate to call an electrician. They’ll take care of it for you.
4. Assess the Damage
Once the water is off, take a moment to assess the damage. Is it a small leak that’s contained to one area? Or is the water spreading throughout your home? Check for signs of standing water, wet carpets, or soaked furniture. If the leak has caused significant water damage, it may be time to call a water damage restoration professional who can handle the cleanup and drying process.
5. Dry the Area
After you’ve assessed the damage, start drying things out as much as possible. Use towels, mops, or a wet/dry vacuum if you have one. Fans and dehumidifiers can also help to speed up the drying process. Keep in mind, mold can start growing in just 24 to 48 hours if things stay damp, so it’s really important to dry everything out as quickly as possible. If the damage is bad, it’s a good idea to call in the pros. They’ll make sure everything gets properly dried and sanitized, so you don’t have to worry about hidden mold or lingering moisture.
6. Document the Damage
Before you start cleaning up, grab your phone and snap some photos and videos of the damage. Trust me, you’ll be glad you did when it’s time to file an insurance claim. Be sure to get shots of where the leak’s coming from, any areas that are soaked, and anything that’s been ruined. If you can, make a list of all the damaged stuff too. It’ll make dealing with your insurance a whole lot easier later on.
7. Contact Your Insurance Company
Once you’ve taken photos and assessed the damage, it’s time to call your insurance company. Many homeowners’ insurance policies cover water damage, but it depends on the cause of the leak. For example, burst pipes or a leaking roof may be covered, but damage from flooding or sewer backups could be excluded. Be prepared to provide them with your photos, videos, and details of the damage. They may also recommend specific water damage restoration companies they work with.
8. Call in the Pros
Even if the leak is small, the water damage can have lasting effects. Mold can grow quickly in wet areas, and even after you dry things out, moisture can linger in places you can’t see. That’s where professional water damage restoration comes in. At RestoPros, we have the equipment and expertise to fully dry your home, check for mold growth, and restore it to its pre-damage condition. We can also handle the insurance paperwork and ensure you don’t have to deal with the mess alone.
9. Repair the Leak
Finally, once the water damage is under control and your home is dry, it’s time to repair the leak. If you’ve already called a plumber or water damage professional, they may be able to fix the source of the problem. If you’re tackling the repairs yourself, be sure to address the root cause of the leak to prevent future issues. Whether it’s a burst pipe, leaky faucet, or a broken appliance, fixing the source will ensure you don’t have to deal with another leak down the road.
Got a Water Leak? Contact RestoPros for All Your Water Damage Restoration Needs in Dallas-Fort Worth, TX and the Surrounding Areas
Water leaks can feel overwhelming, but staying calm and following these steps can make all the difference. By acting quickly, documenting the damage, and calling in the right professionals, you can prevent further damage and restore your home to its original condition.
If you’re dealing with water damage in your Texas home, don’t hesitate to reach out to RestoPros, your trusted water damage restoration company. We’re there to help you get back on your feet, no matter the size of the leak!