Water Damage Checklist (What you Should Do Immediately)

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Water damage is one of the most frustrating and damaging events for a homeowner. Whether it’s from a burst pipe, sewer backup, a leaky washing machine, or a full-on flood, the damage can sneak up on you and quickly get out of hand.

Water damage is also more common than many homeowners realize. According to the Insurance Information Institute, one in every 67 insured homes files a claim for water damage or freezing each year, with the average claim totaling about $15,400, according to the Insurance Information Institute.

Trust us—we’ve seen it all at COIT. The good news? No matter what caused the damage, there are some steps you can take right away to stop things from getting worse. 

Here’s our water damage checklist to help you handle the mess and start getting your home back in shape.

What Is Home Water Damage Restoration?

Home water damage restoration is the process of removing water, drying the structure, sanitizing affected areas, and repairing materials damaged by leaks or flooding. 

Restoration professionals use specialized equipment like high-powered extraction pumps, commercial air movers, and dehumidifiers to remove moisture from floors, walls, carpets, and structural materials.

The goal of water damage restoration is to return the home to its pre-loss condition as quickly as possible. Acting fast is critical because moisture trapped in walls or flooring can lead to mold growth in as little as 24 to 72 hours.

This process typically includes:

• water extraction
 • structural drying and dehumidification
 • sanitizing and odor removal
 • repairing damaged materials

Step 1: Find the Source and Stop the Water

First things first: stop the water! The faster you can stop the flow, the better. 

If the source is obvious, like a burst pipe or overflowing appliance, turn off the water supply immediately. If you can’t figure out where it’s coming from, you might need to shut off the water to the entire house until you can investigate further.

• If the water is clean, like from a busted pipe, you’ve got a better shot at minimizing damage.
• If it’s contaminated (sewage, floodwater), evacuate the area and call in a professional immediately—this is not the time for a DIY situation.

Common Causes of Water Damage in Homes

Water damage can happen suddenly or develop slowly over time. Some of the most common causes include:

• burst or leaking pipes
• washing machine or dishwasher failures
• roof leaks during heavy rain
• overflowing sinks, bathtubs, or toilets
• clogged gutters that allow water to seep into the home
• sump pump failures
• severe storms or flooding

Knowing the cause of the water damage can help restoration professionals determine the safest cleanup approach and prevent the issue from happening again.

Step 2: Safety First

Water and electricity don’t mix. Before you do anything else, switch off the power to any affected areas. If water is near electrical outlets, appliances, or your circuit breaker, call an electrician before you try to enter.

• Put on protective gear like gloves and boots. Even if the water looks harmless, you never know what’s been mixed into it. Mold, bacteria, and other contaminants could be present.
• Be cautious of any structural damage. If the ceiling looks like it’s sagging or the walls are cracking, the weight of the water could cause them to collapse. Don’t risk it—leave that to the experts.

Types of Water Damage

Not all water damage is the same. Restoration professionals typically classify water damage into three categories depending on the level of contamination.

Category 1: Clean Water

Clean water comes from sources like broken supply pipes or rainwater. While it is not immediately harmful, it can quickly become contaminated if left untreated.

Category 2: Gray Water

Gray water contains contaminants and may come from appliances like washing machines, dishwashers, or overflowing sinks.

Category 3: Black Water

Black water is highly contaminated and may contain sewage, bacteria, or floodwater from outside. This type of water damage requires professional cleanup and sanitization.

Understanding these categories helps determine what materials can be safely cleaned and what needs to be removed.

Step 3: Document the Damage for Insurance

Before you grab a mop, grab your phone. Document the damage thoroughly, because your insurance company will need proof of everything.

• Take photos and videos of the damage. Get multiple angles of each room and focus on items like furniture, walls, floors, and other affected areas.
• List your damaged items. Create an inventory of everything that was damaged, and try to include the value or purchase date if you can. If you have receipts, that’s even better.
• Call your insurance company and get the claim process started. They might want to send things out to an adjuster or recommend contractors for repairs. Don’t forget to ask about what’s covered!

Step 4: Begin the Drying Process

Water spreads fast, and the longer it sits, the worse it gets. You’ll want to get rid of standing water and start drying things out right away.

Remove standing water

You can use a wet-vac, towels, or buckets to get rid of water—whatever gets the job done. For larger volumes, you might need to use professional extraction equipment.

Air out the space

Open windows, run fans, and, if possible, set up dehumidifiers to begin the structural drying process. Your goal is to reduce the humidity and speed up the drying process. In some cases, drying can take a few days, so don’t rush it! 

Check the nooks and crannies

Water can hide behind walls, under floors, and in insulation. Don’t just dry what you can see—hidden water can cause long-term problems. Using thermal imaging or moisture meters can help you detect unseen moisture, or contact us at COIT to bring in our specialized equipment.

Equipment Used in Professional Water Damage Restoration

Professional restoration companies use specialized tools designed to remove water and dry building materials quickly.

Some of the most common tools include:

Commercial water extraction pumps

These high-powered machines remove standing water from floors, carpets, and basements.

Air movers

Air movers circulate large volumes of air to speed up evaporation from walls, floors, and furniture.

Industrial dehumidifiers

Dehumidifiers pull moisture from the air and help dry structural materials like drywall and wood framing.

Moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras

These tools help technicians detect hidden moisture behind walls, under flooring, or inside insulation.

Using professional equipment helps make sure the structure is completely dry and reduces the risk of mold growth.

Step 5: Check for Mold Growth

Mold loves water and can start growing within just 24 hours. 

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, mold can begin growing on damp surfaces within 24 to 48 hours after water damage occurs, which is why fast drying and cleanup are so important.

• Look for visible signs of mold—stains, black spots, or discoloration on walls, floors, or ceilings. Don’t forget to check inside your closets, under carpets, and behind furniture.
• After major water damage, it’s also be a good idea to inspect and clean your HVAC system. Moisture can circulate through air ducts and spread odors or mold spores throughout the home. Professional air duct cleaning can help restore indoor air quality after water damage.
• Pay attention to odors. Even if you don’t see mold, a musty smell is usually a tell-tale sign it’s starting to form.
• Bring in professionals. If you suspect mold or if it’s already visible, it’s best to call in a mold remediation expert. COIT also provides professional mold remediation services to safely remove contamination and prevent it from spreading through your home.

​​How Quickly Water Damage Gets Worse

Water damage spreads quickly, which is why it’s so important that you take fast action.

• Within the first 24 hours, water spreads into carpets, drywall, and furniture. Materials begin absorbing moisture.
• After 24 to 48 hours, the wood and drywall begin to swell and warp. Musty odors can also start developing.
• After 48 to 72 hours, mold growth becomes a serious risk if moisture remains trapped inside the home.
• After one week, severe structural damage and widespread mold contamination can occur.

This is why restoration professionals emphasize fast water removal and thorough drying.

Step 6: Salvage What You Can

Once the water is gone, it’s time to take stock of what can be saved and what needs to go.

• Furniture and rugs: If they’ve been soaked for more than a day, especially in contaminated water, it might be time to say goodbye. In some cases, professional carpet cleaning or upholstery cleaning can help salvage materials that would otherwise be lost.
• Documents and photos: For important papers, you can try freeze-drying to stop further damage. Consult a restoration company for your more sensitive documents.
• Electronics: Water and electronics don’t play nice. Even if they seem functional after drying out, it’s usually safer to have them checked or replaced to avoid electrical issues down the line.

Step 7: Call in the Professionals

With water damage, you should never try to handle it alone. Even if things seem dry on the surface, hidden moisture can lurk behind walls or under floors and cause long-term damage you might not even notice until it’s too late. That’s why it’s always best to leave it to the professionals.

At COIT, we know how overwhelming water damage can be, and we’ve made it our mission to help homeowners like you get their space back to normal. From the first call to the final inspection, we’ve got you covered:

• We hunt down hidden water in places you wouldn’t think to look (trust us, we've seen it all).
• Our team can handle everything from minor repairs to major structural fixes—whatever it takes to get your home back in shape.
• We don’t just stop at water—mold? We’re on it. Our mold removal services will make sure your home is safe and healthy.

Don't let water damage linger. Call COIT now and let us take care of the rest—because when it comes to your home, you deserve nothing but the 'all clear.'

Does Insurance Cover Water Damage Restoration?

Many homeowners insurance policies cover water damage if it is caused by a sudden and accidental event, including:

• burst pipes
• appliance leaks
• plumbing failures

Damage caused by long-term leaks or poor maintenance is usually not covered. Flood damage might also require a separate flood insurance policy.

If you plan to file a claim, it is important to:

• take photos of the damage
• document damaged belongings
• keep receipts for cleanup or temporary repairs

Many restoration companies work directly with insurance adjusters to help streamline the claim process.

Step 8: Prevent Future Water Damage

Once the immediate chaos is over, you should start thinking about prevention. What steps can you take to reduce the risk of future water damage?

Check your plumbing regularly

Inspect your pipes, hoses, and the connections around appliances like your washing machine and dishwasher. Replace any old or worn-out parts.

Install water sensors

Place leak detectors in key spots—under sinks, behind toilets, or near the water heater. These can help alert you to leaks before they turn into big problems.

Consider a sump pump 

If you live in a flood-prone area, a sump pump can save your basement from serious flooding. Make sure it’s in working order and consider installing a backup battery. 

Even small leaks can cause major long-term problems. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates that household leaks waste nearly 1 trillion gallons of water every year in the United States, and the average home loses about 10,000 gallons annually from common leaks.

Step 9: Don’t Forget About Structural and Electrical Issues

Water can compromise your home’s structure, so it’s important to have everything inspected once the water is removed.

Check the foundation

If the water has been standing for an extended period, it could damage the foundation of your home. Cracks, shifts, or settling should be looked at immediately by a professional.

Inspect electrical systems

Water damage and electricity don’t mix. Have a licensed electrician inspect any wiring, outlets, or appliances that might have come in contact with water to prevent future hazards.

Step 10: Take Care of Yourself

Dealing with water damage in your home isn’t easy. Make sure you’re also taking care of yourself and your family during the restoration process.

• Stay in a safe space. While your home is being restored, you might need to stay with family, friends, or in a hotel. Don’t rush back into your home until it’s been thoroughly inspected for safety.
• Reach out for help. Don’t try to go through this process alone. There are plenty of resources available from insurance companies, local aid organizations, and restoration experts to guide you through the process.

At COIT, our restoration team handles everything from emergency water extraction to structural drying, mold remediation, and deep cleaning services designed to restore your home after water damage.

We’ve got the experience, tools, and know-how to handle any water damage situation. Don’t wait until it’s too late—call us today and let’s get your home back to its best.

Schedule Your Water Damage Repair!!

Preventing and Managing Water Damage

Water damage can seriously impact your home’s structure and indoor air quality. Taking steps to prevent and manage water issues early can save you from expensive repairs and health risks related to mold and mildew.

How to Prevent Water Damage

Simple, regular maintenance can go a long way in preventing water damage. Regularly check plumbing and appliances, place moisture detectors in high-risk spots, and fix any leaks as soon as they appear. Keep gutters clear, and make sure water drains away from your home’s foundation to prevent it from seeping inside.

Steps to Take After Water Damage

Quick action is key after water damage. Start by stopping the water source and removing any standing water right away. Use fans and dehumidifiers to thoroughly dry the area, and keep an eye out for any mold. Taking photos of the damage for insurance can help with repair claims. Acting fast can reduce repair costs and lower health risks.

Frequently Asked Questions About Water Damage Restoration

How long does water damage restoration take?

Most restoration projects take between several days and a few weeks depending on the amount of water, the materials affected, and whether repairs are required.

How long before mold grows after water damage?

Mold can begin growing within 24 to 48 hours if moisture is not properly removed.

Can water damaged walls be repaired?

In some cases drywall can be dried and repaired, but severely saturated drywall often needs to be removed and replaced.

When should I call a restoration professional?

You should call a professional if there is standing water, contaminated water, structural damage, or moisture trapped behind walls or flooring.