Water Damage: A Homeowner's First-Steps Guide
The first 48 hours determine whether water damage becomes mold damage. Here's exactly what to do.
Elena Cho
Director of Homeowner Care
Why speed matters more than scope
A small leak handled in hour one is a $400 problem. The same leak left for a weekend is often a $40,000 problem. Water damage compounds fast, and mold growth begins within 24 to 48 hours.
Stop the source, then move belongings
Shut off the water at the main if the source isn't obvious. Move rugs, electronics, and anything wood-based out of standing water. Don't try to vacuum water with a household vacuum.
Get air moving
Open windows if outside air is dry. Run fans. Drying surfaces in the first 24 hours dramatically reduces secondary damage and the chance of a mold remediation later.
About the author
Elena Cho
Director of Homeowner Care
Elena leads NPSG's coordinator team and has personally walked thousands of homeowners through the recovery process.
- 10+ yrs claims advocacy
- Certified Loss Consultant