What to Do Immediately After Water Damage in Your Home

Water damage is one of the most common and costly disasters affecting Florida homes. Whether from a burst pipe, appliance failure, or storm-related flooding, water damage can quickly destroy property and lead to dangerous mold growth if not addressed promptly.

At Public FL Adjusters, we've helped countless homeowners navigate water damage claims. Here's our expert guide on what to do immediately after discovering water damage in your home.

1. Ensure Safety First

Before doing anything else, make sure your home is safe to enter:

• Turn off electricity to affected areas
• If water is near electrical outlets or appliances, turn off power at the main breaker
• Check for structural damage that could make the building unsafe
• Wear protective gear (boots, gloves, mask) when entering water-damaged areas

2. Stop the Water Source

If the water is coming from inside your home (like a burst pipe or appliance):

• Turn off the main water valve to your home
• For appliance leaks, disconnect the appliance and/or turn off its water supply valve

3. Document Everything

Before you start cleaning up or making repairs, thoroughly document the damage:

• Take photos and videos of all affected areas
• Document water height at its peak if possible
• Make a detailed inventory of damaged items
• Save samples of damaged materials (like carpet or drywall) if practical

This documentation will be crucial for your insurance claim. The more evidence you have, the stronger your claim will be.

4. Contact Your Insurance Company

Report the water damage to your insurance company as soon as possible. Most policies require prompt notification. However, be careful about what you say during this initial call:

• Stick to the facts about what happened
• Don't speculate about causes or accept blame
• Don't agree to a settlement amount during this first call

5. Begin Water Removal and Drying

The longer water sits, the more damage it causes. Start the drying process as soon as possible:

• Remove standing water with pumps, wet vacs, or buckets
• Move furniture and belongings to dry areas
• Open windows and doors if weather permits
• Use fans and dehumidifiers to accelerate drying
• Remove wet carpet padding (it usually can't be saved)

6. Prevent Mold Growth

In Florida's humid climate, mold can begin growing within 24-48 hours after water damage. To prevent mold:

• Dry affected areas thoroughly
• Clean hard surfaces with disinfectant
• Remove and discard materials that can't be dried completely
• Monitor for musty odors or visible mold growth

7. Consider Hiring a Public Adjuster

Water damage claims are often complex and frequently undervalued by insurance companies. A public adjuster can:

• Accurately assess the full extent of damage
• Document hidden damage that might be missed
• Handle all communications with the insurance company
• Ensure your claim includes all covered damages
• Negotiate for a fair settlement

At Public FL Adjusters, we've helped homeowners recover millions in water damage claims that were initially undervalued or denied by insurance companies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Waiting too long to report the damage to your insurance company
• Disposing of damaged items before they're documented
• Accepting the first settlement offer without a thorough review
• Failing to document all communications with your insurance company
• Not getting professional help for extensive water damage

Water damage claims can be challenging, but with prompt action and proper documentation, you can maximize your insurance recovery and restore your home properly. If you're dealing with water damage in Florida, contact Public FL Adjusters for a free claim review.