What to Do When You Have Water Damage - Download the PDF

When you have water damage, it’s important to act quickly. Not only can any delay result in additional damage, but many insurance policies require that you do everything you can to protect against additional damage to the property.

That’s why Swartz Contracting gets on the scene quickly after your call. Our highly trained water damage specialists will inspect the property, looking not only for the obvious sources of water but also any hidden areas such as under or behind drywall, below sub-floors and under or behind cabinets. And once we start, we usually can dry in 72 hours or less.

Call our 24-hour emergency line and we’ll get there as soon as possible. Until we arrive, you can minimize additional damage and help get you back to normal faster.

• If the outside temperature is above 60 degrees, use dehumidifiers if available.
• Use fans in conjunction with dehumidification equipment to circulate air and assist drying.
• Remove as much water as possible by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe furniture dry.
• Lift draperies off carpet, loop through a plastic coat hanger, and place the hanger on the drapery rod.
• Prop up wet furniture cushions for even drying and place small wood blocks or aluminum foil under furniture legs.
• Remove wet area rugs or other floor coverings.
• Open furniture drawers, closest doors, and luggage, to enhance drying.
• Move photos, paintings, and art objects to a safe, dry location.
• Remove damp books from shelves and spread out to dry.
• Do not use an ordinary household vacuum to remove water.
• Do not use electrical appliances while on a wet carpet or wet floors.
• Do not go into rooms with standing water if the electricity is still on.
• Do not lift tacked-down carpet without professional help. Lifting carpet incorrectly could promote damage and delamination.
• Do not wait to call for professional help.  Damage from the water and bacteria growth can begin within hours.
• Do not disturb mold if it is visible.