The Insurance Information Institute reports that water damage remains one of the most frequently reported homeowners’ insurance claims. The data shows that almost 1 out of 50 homeowners file a claim each year. The average insurance claim for water damage hovers around $11,000, and we also know from experience that the amount can be much higher if not addressed quickly.
Knowing what to do and taking the right actions quickly can mean the difference between making simple repairs and needing full home restoration. If you’re a homeowner in Michigan, professional water damage restoration in Auburn Hills by Pristine Clean and Restoration can assist you in regaining control and peace of mind quickly.
This blog includes a step-by-step action plan for when your property is impacted by water damage, with thoughts on the critical first 24 hours.
Step-by-Step Guide To Water Damage Restoration
Whether the source of the water damage is a broken pipe, flooding from a storm event, or failure of an appliance like a washing machine or refrigerator, the first 24 hours after water damage occurs are crucial.Â
Step 1 – Safety First
First and foremost, your safety and the safety of your family are most important. Electricity and water do not mix, and floodwater can be contaminated and pose health risks.
- Shut off power in the area if it is safe to do so.
- Do not touch standing water, especially if it is contaminated (sewage or chemicals).
- Remove children and pets from the environment.
If you have structural concerns or are unsure of the water source, do not hesitate to call 911 or a local water damage restoration company in Auburn Hills.
Step 2: Stop the Water at the Source
The next step is to locate and stop the water source as quickly as possible. Depending on the cause, this could mean:
- Turning off the main water valve
- Turning off appliances like washing machines or dishwashers
- Temporarily covering a roof leak with a tarp
Time is important. The longer water is allowed to flow, the more damage will occur, and the higher the repair costs will be.
Step 3: Call in a Water Damage Restoration Company
You may feel the urge to remove the water and clean up yourself, but the reality is that DIY cleanups are rarely sufficient, especially with hidden water behind walls, where mold may already be growing without your knowledge.
Call a reputable provider of water damage services in Auburn Hills, like Pristine Clean and Restoration. A professional can:
- Check the extent of damage with high-end moisture detection instruments
- Begin water extraction using industrial pumps/machines
- Start the drying and dehumidification process
Try searching Auburn Hills damage restoration near me for a fast-start local expert with the ability to act quickly.
Step 4: Take Pictures and Video for Insurance Documentation
When it comes to insurance claims for any kind of water damage or repairs, proper documentation is essential. Take pictures and videos of all damaged areas as soon as practical after discovering the water. In your documentation, be sure to note:
- Damage to floors, walls, or ceilings
- Water-soaked furniture and personal belongings
- Source of water, if it can be visually identified
- Any mold or mildew that is forming
As soon as you begin documenting evidence for your claim, it will become critically important. A reliable Water Damage Restoration Auburn Hills service provider like Pristine Clean and Restoration can even help coordinate with your insurance provider and get the process rolling.
Step 5: Water Extraction and Drying
Once the professional team is on-site, water extraction can begin. This is generally done using high-power pumps and vacuums to remove standing water. The drying process includes:
- Air movers to promote airflow
- Dehumidifiers to remove moisture from the air
- Removal of saturated carpets, padding, and possibly even drywall
Why is fast drying crucial? Mold can grow within 24–48 hours of water damage. Relying on mold removal specialists in Auburn Hills and taking fast action can help prevent a mold infestation.
Step 6: Save What Is Possible
As structural drying and restoration proceed, you can try saving some belongings. Here’s how:
- Remove unaffected items from the water-damaged area
- Place aluminum foil underneath the legs of furniture to avoid staining
- Air out books, documents, and pictures, and place them in a dry area
However, do not attempt to save water-damaged electronics or appliances, as they must be inspected professionally.
Step 7: Decontamination and Mold Prevention
If the water is categorized as grey or black water (from dishwashers, toilets, or floodwaters), sanitation is necessary. A certified Water Damage Repair Auburn Hills team will use EPA-approved disinfectants to kill bacteria or pathogens and prevent mold and mildew from forming. Additional steps may include:
- Vacuuming with a HEPA filter to capture spores
- Replacing drywall or insulation
- Applying antimicrobial treatments to prevent regrowth
If you smell a musty odor, mold is already developing. Address the issue early with Auburn Hills Water Damage Restoration services that include complete remediation.
Step 8: Perform an Entire Property Assessment
After drying and cleaning are completed, you or your restoration team should do a walk-through of the premises. The team will assess:
- Structural integrity
- Moisture that may exist in walls and flooring
- Damage to plumbing or HVAC systems
- Areas that may need reconstruction or painting
The assessment is critical to determine the next steps for complete restoration. Credible Water Damage Restoration in Auburn Hills companies, such as Pristine Clean, provide detailed reports and transparent estimates on any follow-up restoration work.
Step 9: Repair and Restore
Once your home is dried and safe, the final step is to repair. Working with a company such as Pristine Clean, a Water Damage Restoration Company in Auburn Hills, is key.
Step 10: Prepare for Possibilities
Once restoration is complete, take tangible steps to prevent future incidents:
- Install water leak sensors and alarms
- Schedule routine maintenance for appliances and plumbing
- Ensure your sump pump and drainage systems are in good condition
- Consider a water backup rider for insurance
Preventative measures, matched with a Water Damage Restoration/Water Mitigation partner in Auburn Hills, will help you be ready for whatever happens next.
Conclusion: Move Quickly, Restore Wisely With Pristine Clean
Water damage can be overwhelming. The first 24 hours are a window of opportunity to reduce long-term damage, keep repair costs down, and protect your home. Quick action, professional services, and a thorough documentation process can save you time, money, and stress.
When you experience Water Damage in Auburn Hills, don’t wait, call in your local experts who understand the gravity of your situation and offer all services in one.
Pristine Clean is your trusted source for Water Damage Restoration in Auburn Hills and the surrounding areas. We focus on ultra-fast emergency response, professional-quality water extraction services, drying, mold remediation, and full repair. Our certified service technicians use the latest technology and work directly with your insurance to streamline your restoration experience.
Contact Us now for 24/7 emergency Water Damage Restoration Auburn Hills and let us get you back to normal, quickly.
