First 24 Hours After a Flood: A Homeowner’s Emergency Action Plan

Floods don’t wait for a convenient time to strike, and their effects can be devastating. Whether caused by storms, a burst pipe, or an overflowing appliance, floods can damage your property and create serious health risks in a matter of hours. The first 24 hours are vital to minimizing flood damage, preventing mold growth, and securing your home and belongings. Acting quickly and strategically can make all the difference.

At STOP Restoration in Winston-Salem and the Piedmont Triad area, we specialize in water damage restoration and offer 24/7 emergency services to help you recover efficiently from flood disasters. Here’s your action plan for the first 24 hours following a flood.

1. Ensure Safety First

Ensure Safety First

Before addressing any damage, your safety is the top priority.

- Turn off power to avoid electrical hazards, but only if it’s safe to access the breaker panel. If water has reached electrical outlets, call a professional electrician.
- Avoid walking through floodwater. It can be contaminated with harmful bacteria or chemicals, and there’s a risk of hidden debris or electrical currents.
- Evacuate if necessary. If there’s structural damage or sewage backup, leave your home immediately and contact professionals, like us at STOP Restoration, for help.

2. Stop the Source (If Possible)

If flooding is due to an internal cause, take steps to stop or limit the water flow.

- Shut off the main water supply if the flooding is caused by a pipe or appliance failure.
- Unplug appliances and electronics from flooded areas if it’s safe to do so.
- Call a professional plumber or STOP Restoration for assistance with complex or unsafe situations.

Stopping the source can help minimize additional damage and give you more time to assess the situation.

3. Document the Damage

Thorough documentation is essential for filing an accurate insurance claim.

- Photograph all affected areas, from structural damage to water-logged belongings. Don’t forget hidden areas like closets or electrical panels.
- Record videos, especially for areas with extensive damage or potential hazards.
- Keep a written log of actions taken, including shutting off water, moving items, or speaking to service providers.

With complete documentation, you’ll be better prepared to work with your homeowner’s insurance provider and secure appropriate compensation.

4. Contact Your Insurance Company

Homeowner’s policies often cover flooding caused by internal issues, such as burst pipes or appliance overflows.

- Reach out to your insurer as soon as possible.
- Provide the photos, videos, and records you collected.
- Ask for a list of covered services. Some policies may cover professional restoration services, like those provided by STOP Restoration.

If you’re unsure about navigating the claims process, our team at STOP Restoration can assist you every step of the way.

5. Call a Professional Restoration Team Immediately

Call a Professional Restoration Team Immediately

Floodwater doesn’t just damage property; if left untreated, it can lead to long-term structural and health issues.

At STOP Restoration, we specialize in flood recovery and provide essential services, including:

- Water extraction to remove standing water quickly.
- Drying and dehumidification to prevent moisture-related issues like mold.
- Mold prevention to secure air quality and protect your health.
- Debris removal and disinfection to restore your home’s cleanliness and safety.

Our emergency response in Winston-Salem and the Piedmont Triad area means we can act fast when time is of the essence.

6. Start Protecting What You Can

Start Protecting What You Can

If it’s safe to remain inside, take small steps to decrease damage to your belongings.

- Move undamaged items to higher ground or dry rooms. This includes furniture, electronics, and important documents.
- Remove smaller items like rugs, cushions, and valuables to reduce moisture absorption.
- Circulate air, if conditions allow. Open windows and use fans or dehumidifiers to jumpstart the drying process—but only if further flooding risks are eliminated.

7. Be Aware of Mold Risk Within 24–48 Hours

Be Aware of Mold Risk Within 24–48 Hours

Mold can start growing in as little as 24-48 hours under moist conditions. It’s vital to act swiftly and professionally.

- Watch for warning signs, like musty smells, discolored walls, or spikes in humidity levels.
- Don’t try to handle mold on your own. Mold spores can spread through the air, damaging both air quality and untouched areas.

At STOP Restoration, we specialize in professional mold monitoring and remediation to ensure your home remains safe.

8. Partnering with STOP Restoration

Partnering With STOP Restoration

Flood damage can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. STOP Restoration is here to support homeowners in Winston-Salem and the Piedmont Triad with professional water damage restoration services.

Flood Remediation Services

When disaster strikes, you need a partner you can trust. Here’s how STOP Restoration can make your recovery process smoother and more effective:

- Quick Response Times – Available 24/7 to minimize damage and start restoration immediately.
- Comprehensive Services – From water extraction to mold prevention and reconstruction, we do it all.
- Professional Technicians – Our trained professionals use advanced technology and techniques to restore your home.

Why Choose STOP Restoration

We understand the stress and urgency that floods create. That’s why we’re deeply committed to providing peace of mind through reliable and efficient services. Our customer-focused approach ensures you’re informed and supported every step of the way.

Get a Free Inspection

Concerned about lingering mold or hidden damage from a flood? At STOP Restoration, we offer free inspections and consultations to assess your home’s condition and guide you toward the best restoration plan.