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What Is the First Step in Every Damage Restoration Job?

Last updated October 26, 2026

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The short answer

Stop the Source

Before any cleanup or repair work starts, the cause of the damage must be halted. If a pipe burst, a toilet overflowed, or a roof leaked, shut off the main water valve. For fire or smoke, make sure the fire department has cleared the structure and the source is out. For mold, the moisture source needs to be identified and stopped, whether that is a leak or high humidity.

Turning off electricity in the affected areas is also a safety measure, especially where water is present. Water and electricity are a dangerous combination. If you are unsure how to safely shut off utilities, leave the building and call the relevant utility provider or a professional. Your safety comes before any property concerns. If you live in Cincinnati, keep your shutoff valve location written down so you can act quickly in an emergency.

Document the Damage

Once the source is stopped and it is safe to be inside, take photos and videos of every affected area. Capture the full room and close-up shots of damaged items, including electronics, furniture, flooring, and walls. Do not move or throw away anything until you have recorded it. This documentation is essential for your insurance claim and for the restoration process.

Write down the date and time of the damage, the cause if you know it, and list any items that were damaged. Keep receipts for any supplies you buy for temporary repairs, like tarps or buckets. This record helps you communicate clearly with your insurance company and with the pros who handle the restoration work. The more detail you capture now, the smoother the later steps will be.

  • Take wide shots of each room
  • Photograph serial numbers on electronics
  • Note the water level on walls or furniture
  • Save samples of wet carpet or drywall if needed
  • Keep a written log of your actions

Call Your Insurance Company

After you have secured the property and documented the damage, contact your insurance company to report the loss. Ask what your policy covers and what steps they require you to take. They may ask for the documentation you have already gathered. Do not start any permanent repairs until you know what is covered, as some policies require an inspection first.

Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Be honest about the cause and extent of the damage. Your insurance company may have specific guidelines for temporary repairs and for how long you have to file a claim. Follow their instructions closely to avoid any issues with your claim.

Temporary Protection

While you wait for professional help, take steps to prevent further damage. Use tarps to cover holes in the roof, board up broken windows, and move undamaged furniture to a dry area. If water is still seeping, place buckets or towels to catch it. These temporary measures are your responsibility and can reduce the overall damage.

Do not attempt structural repairs or extensive cleanup on your own, especially if there is a risk of electrical hazards or contaminated water. Your focus should be on safety and minimizing additional harm. The pros will handle the full restoration, but your quick actions now can make a significant difference in what can be saved.

Hire Local Water Damage Pros

Once you have done the initial steps, call local water damage pros to assess the situation and begin the restoration process. They have the equipment and knowledge to dry out the property, remove damaged materials, and prevent mold growth. Their work typically involves water extraction, structural drying, and cleaning of affected surfaces.

Ask the pros about their process and what you can expect. They will likely start with a thorough inspection and then create a plan for cleanup and repairs. The cost of restoration varies depending on the extent of the damage, the type of water involved, and the size of the affected area. Be prepared for the work to take time, and keep communication open throughout the process.

  • Ask about their drying and dehumidification methods
  • Inquire about mold prevention measures
  • Confirm what items they can salvage
  • Ask for a written outline of the work steps

Talk to someone now

Every hour counts once water gets into floors and walls. One call starts the response.

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Frequently asked questions

Should I wait for the pros before doing anything?

No, you should act quickly to stop the source and document the damage. Turning off water and electricity is safe and necessary. Move valuable items to a dry area if you can do so safely. These initial actions help reduce the damage and protect your claim.

What if the damage is from a flood or sewage backup?

Treat flood and sewage water as contaminated. Avoid direct contact and wear protective gear if you must enter the area. Do not attempt cleanup yourself. Call the pros immediately, as they have equipment to handle hazardous water and will follow safety protocols.

Do I need to dry out the area myself?

You can use towels and fans to remove surface water, but do not run fans if mold is already visible, as that can spread spores. Leave structural drying to the pros, who use industrial dehumidifiers and air movers. Your main job is to prevent further damage, not to do the full restoration.

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