What To Do Immediately Following Water Damage in Your House

A Step-by-Step Emergency Guide for Homeowners Before the Experts Arrive at Your Home

Water damage is overwhelming—whether it’s from a burst pipe, crazy storm, or faulty appliance. The secret to minimizing destruction is to be smart, fast, and cool under pressure. While Brookstone Restoration is on the way, follow this step-by-step guide during the first few critical minutes to protect your home and your loved ones.

Step 1: Turn Off the Water Source

If water is still entering your home, move quickly to stop it:

Leaky pipes? Shut off the main water valve.
Appliance issue? Turn off the supply line behind the appliance.
Storm or roof damage? Use buckets or tarps to control incoming water—only if it’s safe to do so.

Step 2: Document the Damage

Take a few minutes before beginning cleanup to document everything.

Take photos and videos of the damage.
Capture visuals of walls, floors, furniture, valuables, and any visible mold.
This documentation is essential for insurance claims and for Brookstone’s restoration plan.

Step 3: Notify Your Insurance Company

Call your homeowners insurance provider as soon as possible.
Share the damage documentation and follow their claim process.
Brookstone can help coordinate directly with adjusters, if needed.

Step 4: Initiate Basic Water Extraction

While waiting for Brookstone to arrive:

Remove standing water (if safe) using towels, mops, or a wet/dry vacuum.
Open doors and windows to enhance airflow and reduce humidity.
Move rugs, curtains, or small furniture pieces to dry, unaffected areas.

Step 5: Protect Personal Property

Prevent further damage to your belongings:

Move furniture and valuables to upper floors or safe zones.
Place wood blocks or aluminum foil under furniture legs to avoid saturation.
Remove important documents and electronics from water-damaged areas.

Step 6: Don’t Make These Errors

Avoid common mistakes that could make things worse:

❌ Don’t use fans on areas with suspected mold—it can spread spores.
❌ Don’t walk into rooms with sagging ceilings—they could collapse.
❌ Don’t leave wet materials to air dry unattended—mold can grow quickly and silently.

Step 7: Leave It to the Pros

When Brookstone Restoration arrives, we’ll handle it from here:

Conduct a comprehensive damage assessment
Begin professional drying, dehumidification, and restoration
Work directly with your insurance company
Guide you through every step until your home is fully restored

You’re Not Alone — We’re Here to Assist

Emergencies don’t pause, and neither should you. Taking fast, informed action and staying calm before our team arrives can drastically reduce the impact of water damage. We’re honored to be your trusted partner in restoring your home—and your sense of peace.