What to Do in the First 24 Hours After Water Damage
By the Des Moines Water Damage team · September 9, 2026
The first 24 hours after water damage matter most: stop the source if it's safe to do so, move valuables away from the water, document everything with photos before cleanup starts, and call a restoration line — the faster water is extracted, the less it costs to fix and the lower the risk of mold.
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Step 1: Make Sure It's Safe
Before doing anything else, check for hazards. If water is near an electrical panel or outlets, avoid the area and shut off power at the breaker if you can do so without stepping in water. If you smell gas or see structural damage like a sagging ceiling, leave the area and call 911.
Step 2: Stop the Water Source
If the damage is from a plumbing failure, shut off the water at the main valve or the fixture's shutoff. If it's from weather or an external source, this step may not apply — focus on documentation and calling for help instead.
Step 3: Document Everything
Take photos and video of the damage before you move anything or start cleanup. This documentation is valuable for insurance claims regardless of whether coverage ends up applying.
Step 4: Move Valuables and Furniture
Move anything you can safely lift away from standing water — furniture, electronics, rugs, and important documents. Don't worry about deep cleaning yet; the priority is limiting further damage.
Step 5: Call for a Damage Assessment
Once the immediate safety and documentation steps are done, call a restoration line for a free assessment. Mold can begin growing within 24 to 48 hours in damp conditions, so the sooner extraction and drying start, the better the outcome.
What Not to Do
- Don't use a household vacuum on standing water — it's not designed for it and creates a shock hazard.
- Don't wait to see if it "dries on its own" — hidden moisture in walls and subfloor doesn't dry without help.
- Don't attempt to clean contaminated water (sewage, flood water) yourself — call a professional.