When Should You Call a Professional for Water Damage?

You see discoloration, bubbling paint, or sagging drywall. These signs mean water has soaked into materials that are hard to dry properly. Peeling wallpaper or a musty smell also point to hidden moisture.

Water has reached electrical outlets, light fixtures, or your breaker panel. That creates a safety risk. You also need help if the water came from a sewer or if you cannot identify the source. In those cases, do not wait.

• Water stains spreading on ceilings or walls
• Soft spots in floors or walls when you press on them
• Standing water that has not dried after a day
• A visible leak from a pipe, roof, or appliance that keeps returning
• Mold starting to appear within a few days

Water damage gets worse with every hour. Drywall can swell, wood can warp, and mold can start growing within 24 to 48 hours. The longer water sits, the more materials you might need to replace.

You can reduce the damage by turning off the water supply if you can find the shutoff valve. If you live in Cincinnati, keep your shutoff valve location written down. Move furniture and rugs out of the wet area, and open windows if it is safe.

Professional water damage work typically costs anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. The final cost depends on the size of the affected area, the type of water, and how much material needs to be removed or replaced.

Your insurance policy might cover some types of water damage, such as from a burst pipe or a storm. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Check your policy and document the damage with photos before you start any work.