Carolina
Restoration Solutions
Water Loss Emergency Guide
Quick action steps to take when water damage occurs in your home or business
Immediate Actions During Water Damage
When water damage strikes, the first 24-48 hours are critical. Taking the right steps immediately can significantly reduce damage and recovery costs. This guide will help you know exactly what to do when facing a water emergency.
Remember, your safety is the priority. If the water damage is extensive or involves contaminated water, contact professionals immediately at 864-423-5170 for emergency response.
Step-by-Step Emergency Response
1Ensure Safety First
- Turn off electricity to affected areas if safe to do so. If you can't reach the breaker box safely, call an electrician.
- Avoid rooms with sagging ceilings as they may collapse.
- Wear protective gear (rubber boots, gloves) if you must enter standing water.
- Evacuate if necessary, especially if dealing with sewage backup or extensive flooding.
2Stop the Water Source
- Locate and shut off the main water valve if the water is coming from a plumbing issue.
- For burst pipes, turn off the water supply to that specific fixture if possible.
- For appliance leaks, unplug the appliance and turn off its water supply line.
- For roof leaks, use buckets to collect dripping water and cover furniture with plastic.
3Document the Damage
- Take photos and videos of all affected areas before removing any water or making repairs.
- Make a list of damaged items with approximate values.
- Don't throw anything away until an insurance adjuster has documented it.
- Keep all receipts for emergency repairs and temporary accommodations.
4Contact Professional Help
- Call Carolina Restoration Solutions at 864-423-5170 for 24/7 emergency water damage restoration.
- Notify your insurance company to start the claims process.
- If applicable, contact utility companies about damaged gas or electric lines.
5Begin Mitigation (If Safe)
- Remove excess water with mops, towels, or a wet/dry vacuum if safe to do so.
- Move furniture away from wet areas or place aluminum foil under furniture legs.
- Remove area rugs and hangings in affected areas.
- Open windows and doors to start air circulation if weather permits.
- Don't use household fans in potentially contaminated water to avoid spreading bacteria.
What NOT To Do
- Don't enter rooms with standing water if electricity is still on
- Don't use household vacuum cleaners to remove water
- Don't leave wet fabrics in place; hang furs and leather goods to dry separately
- Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging
- Don't delay calling for professional help – secondary damage begins within hours
Categories of Water Damage
Category 1: Clean Water
Water from a clean source (broken water supply line, tub overflow). Less hazardous but can degrade to Category 2 or 3 if left untreated.
Category 2: Gray Water
Contains significant contamination (dishwasher overflow, washing machine overflow, toilet overflow with urine). Can cause discomfort or illness.
Category 3: Black Water
Grossly unsanitary (sewage backup, flooding from rivers, groundwater). Contains pathogens and requires professional remediation.
Need Emergency Water Damage Restoration?
Don't wait! Water damage worsens with every passing minute. Our trained technicians are available 24/7 to respond to your emergency and begin the restoration process.