What DIY Steps Can You Take While Waiting for Pros?

Locating and stopping the flow of water is your most critical task. If a pipe has burst, find your home's main water shutoff valve and turn it clockwise to close it. For an appliance leak, use its dedicated shutoff valve near the unit. If the source is external, like a roof leak, use buckets and tarps to divert water away from the interior.

Locating your home's main water shutoff valve ahead of time saves crucial minutes during a leak. Once the water flow is stopped, you can focus on managing the water that has already entered. This simple action dramatically reduces the scope of the damage.

Quickly moving your belongings prevents further damage and gives restoration pros a clear work area. Start with lightweight, high-value items that are most susceptible to water. Lift curtains and drapes out of the water and secure them over rods. Do not attempt to move large, heavy furniture like sofas or bookcases by yourself, as this can cause injury or further damage.

For items you cannot move, try to elevate them. Place wood blocks, bricks, or plastic containers under furniture legs. Remove wet fabrics like throw blankets and clothing and take them to a dry area. This salvage effort helps protect your possessions and reduces the overall moisture load that needs to be addressed during the drying process.

• Move furniture, area rugs, and electronics to a dry room.
• Place aluminum foil under furniture legs to prevent staining carpets.
• Take books, documents, and photos out of damp drawers or shelves.
• Carry out small, valuable items like artwork or keepsakes.
• Wipe down wet furniture surfaces with a dry cloth.
• Prop up cushions and pillows to aid air circulation.

Thorough documentation is vital for your insurance claim. Use your phone to take wide shots of entire rooms and close-ups of specific damage. Photograph water lines on walls and any personal property that is wet. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Do not discard damaged items until an insurance adjuster has seen them, unless they pose a health risk. This visual record provides clear evidence of the initial damage extent.

• Take clear photos and videos of all affected areas and items.
• Write a list of damaged belongings, noting brands and model numbers.
• Capture the water source if it is visible and safe to photograph.
• Keep samples of damaged materials like flooring or wallpaper.
• Save receipts for any supplies you purchase for temporary repairs.
• Note the date and time you discovered the damage.