Stay Safe First and Always
Before doing anything else, prioritize safety. Damage from water, fire, or storms can create hidden hazards such as weakened structures, exposed wiring, contaminated water, or airborne particles. If authorities have advised you to evacuate, follow their instructions. If you’re allowed back inside, move cautiously. Wear protective gloves, sturdy shoes, and—if available—a mask, especially in areas affected by smoke, mold, or sewage. Avoid entering rooms with sagging ceilings, standing water near electrical outlets, or strong chemical odors. Your well-being matters more than any belongings.Stop the Source of Damage If Possible
If it’s safe to do so, try to stop the cause of the damage. Shutting off the main water valve during a leak or burst pipe can prevent additional flooding. Turning off electricity in affected areas may help reduce fire or shock risks. For fire or smoke damage, make sure all flames are fully extinguished before re-entering. These small actions can significantly limit how much restoration will ultimately be needed.Ventilate and Reduce Moisture
Proper airflow is especially important after water damage. Open windows and doors when weather permits to allow fresh air to circulate. If you have fans or dehumidifiers, running them can help slow mold growth and reduce lingering moisture. Keep in mind that this is only a temporary measure—professional drying equipment is far more effective—but early ventilation can make a difference.Protect Undamaged Areas of Your Home
Restoration work can involve moving equipment, removing materials, and accessing multiple rooms. Take a little time to safeguard areas that weren’t impacted. Close doors to unaffected rooms, cover furniture with plastic or sheets, and move valuable or sentimental items to a dry, secure space. This helps prevent cross-contamination from soot, dust, or moisture.Document Everything for Insurance
One of the most important steps you can take is documenting the damage. Clear photos and videos provide valuable records for your insurance claim. Capture wide shots of each affected room, then take close-ups of damaged walls, floors, ceilings, and personal belongings. Keep any receipts for emergency supplies or temporary repairs. Organized documentation can save time and reduce headaches later.Gather Important Documents and Essentials
If parts of your home are inaccessible, make sure you collect key items while you can. This includes IDs, insurance papers, medications, chargers, and a few days’ worth of clothing. Having these essentials together allows you to focus on recovery without scrambling for necessities.Simple Tasks You Can Do While You Wait
You don’t need to start major cleanup—leave that to professionals—but there are a few light tasks that may help stabilize the situation:- Remove small personal items from wet floors or smoky rooms
- Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs to prevent staining
- Blot (don’t rub) excess water from hard surfaces
- Empty trash bins that contain wet or contaminated materials
- Keep pets and children away from damaged areas
One Quick Checklist to Stay Organized
Here’s a short checklist you can follow to keep things manageable while waiting for ServiceMaster Professional Cleaning & Restoration:- Turn off water or electricity if needed and safe
- Open windows and doors for ventilation
- Take photos and videos for insurance
- Move valuables to a dry area
- Gather essential documents and supplies
- Block off unsafe rooms
- Avoid heavy cleaning or demolition