Guide

The first 48 hours after water damage

The EPA puts the drying window at 24 to 48 hours. This checklist is ordered to use that window.

Hour zero to hour two

Safety
If water is near outlets or the panel, leave the breaker alone and call an electrician. If the ceiling bulges, move out of the room.
Stop the source
Shut the fixture valve or the main valve. For rain intrusion, move belongings away from the wet area.
Capture evidence
Photograph and film each room before moving things. Note the date and what you believe caused it.
Call a restoration contractor
Use the number at the top of this page. Describe the source, the rooms and how long water has been present.

Report to the insurer
Florida gives policyholders one year from the date of loss to give notice of a new claim. Reporting promptly keeps options open.
Lift what you can
Move small furniture, rugs and electronics to dry rooms. Prop up furniture legs on blocks.
Run air conditioning
Cool dry air helps. A fan alone moves humid air around.
Keep damaged items
Store items you cannot clean until they have been documented.

Let readings lead
A contractor measures moisture in walls and subfloor. Surfaces that feel dry can still read wet.
Watch for odor
A musty smell after two days points to moisture that is still in the structure.
Ask before demolition
Cutting out drywall is often necessary, but ask the contractor to show you the readings that justify it.

Skip the household vacuum on wet carpet, keep space heaters out of damp rooms, and never combine bleach with other cleaners.

Sources were consulted on November 5, 2026. Agency pages change, so check the source before relying on a detail.

Dial the number and describe what happened. You are connected with an independent restoration contractor who serves your ZIP code.