What Should You Do in the First 24 Hours After Water Damage?

Water damage doesn’t give you time to think; it forces you to act fast. Whether it’s a burst pipe, sump pump failure, or appliance leak, what you do in the first 24 hours can make a major difference in how much damage occurs, how your insurance responds, and how expensive the situation becomes.

Here’s exactly what you should do.

1. Stop the Source of the Water (If You Can Do It Safely)

Before anything else, you need to stop additional damage from happening.

• Shut off the main water supply if it’s a plumbing issue
• Turn off the electricity in affected areas if water is near outlets
• Avoid standing water if there’s any electrical risk

If you’re unsure or it’s unsafe—don’t risk it. Call a professional immediately.

2. Review Your Insurance Policy Before Calling Your Agent

This is one step most homeowners skip—but it matters.

Before you file a claim, take a few minutes to review your homeowners insurance policy so you understand:

• What types of water damage are covered
• Your deductible
• Any exclusions (like gradual leaks or sump pump failures without endorsements)

With insurance costs rising and many homeowners adjusting coverage to save money, policies today often have more limitations than people expect.

It’s also important to understand that mold coverage is typically not standard. In many cases, it’s a rider (an add-on to your policy) that comes at an additional cost. If you delay filing a claim or addressing the water damage and mold develops, you may find that:

• Mold remediation is only partially covered
• Or not covered at all without that rider

Getting familiar with your policy first helps you:

• Make a more informed decision about filing a claim
• Avoid surprises during the claims process
• Understand what costs you may be responsible for

3. Call Your Insurance Agent and File a Claim

Once you have a general understanding of your coverage, reach out to your agent.

When you call:

• Be clear about what happened and when
• Provide photos if possible
• Ask about next steps and documentation

Filing a claim early is typically recommended to protect yourself and start the process. However, filing a claim does not mean you are locked into using it.

After a mitigation company assesses the damage, if the total cost does not exceed your deductible—or if you decide it’s better financially—you can often choose to rescind your claim and handle the loss as a self-pay.

This gives you flexibility while still protecting your options upfront.

4. Call a Professional Mitigation Company Immediately

Time is critical. Water can begin causing structural damage and mold growth in as little as 24–48 hours.

A professional mitigation company will:

• Extract standing water
• Set up commercial-grade drying equipment
• Monitor moisture levels
• Prevent secondary damage like mold

The faster this process starts, the better chance you have of saving materials like flooring, drywall, and cabinetry.

5. Document Everything

Take photos and videos of all affected areas before and during cleanup.

Make sure to capture:

• The source of the water (if visible)
• Damaged floors, walls, and belongings
• Any standing water

This documentation will help support your insurance claim and ensure nothing is missed.

6. Remove What You Can (Without Causing More Damage)

If it’s safe to do so, start moving:

• Furniture
• Rugs
• Personal belongings

Getting items out of the affected area can prevent further damage—but avoid tearing out materials or making major changes before professionals assess the situation.

Why Acting Fast Matters

Water damage gets worse by the hour. What starts as a small issue can quickly turn into:

• Mold growth
• Structural damage
• Increased repair costs
• Complications with your insurance claim

Need Help? We’re Available 24/7

If you experience water damage, don’t wait.

ServiceMaster of Minneapolis #1414 provides fast, professional mitigation services throughout Minneapolis, St. Louis Park, and the surrounding Twin Cities area. We work directly with homeowners and insurance companies to make the process as smooth as possible.