Water damage can happen unexpectedly, whether due to a burst pipe, flooding, or a leaking roof. When your home or business is damaged by water, taking immediate action is crucial to minimize destruction and prevent costly repairs. Acting quickly can save your property, reduce health risks, and prevent mold growth.

If you live in a place like Denver, Colorado, where sudden storms and freezing temperatures can cause unexpected water damage, being prepared is even more important. Follow these five urgent steps to protect your home and belongings in case of water damage.

Step 1: Stop the Water Source Immediately

The first and most important step is to identify and stop the water source to prevent further damage. If water is coming from a burst pipe, turn off the main water supply immediately.

Shutting Off Water in an Emergency

Knowing where your main water shut-off valve is located can save you valuable time during an emergency. If flooding is caused by heavy rain or snowmelt, try to seal entry points with sandbags or waterproof barriers to reduce the influx of water. Homeowners in Denver, where snowmelt can lead to sudden basement flooding, should take extra precautions during the winter months.

Seek Professional Assistance

If you’re unable to locate the source or stop the water, contact a professional water damage restoration service immediately. Quick response can prevent structural damage and costly repairs.

Step 2: Prioritize Safety and Assess Damage

Once you’ve stopped the water source, ensure that you and your family remain safe. Water damage can lead to electrical hazards, weakened structures, and contaminated water.

Turn Off Electricity

Before stepping into any flooded areas, turn off the power supply to prevent electrocution. If the damage is extensive, it’s best to consult an electrician before turning the power back on.

Check for Structural Issues

Inspect walls, ceilings, and floors for signs of weakness. Water can compromise the structural integrity of your home, making it unsafe to occupy certain areas. In Denver, older homes with wooden foundations may be more susceptible to water-related damage and need immediate attention.

Step 3: Remove Standing Water and Begin Drying

The longer water sits, the greater the damage. Quickly removing standing water and beginning the drying process can help prevent mold growth and permanent damage.

Use Pumps and Wet Vacuums

If you have a significant amount of water, use a sump pump or wet vacuum to extract it. Towels and mops can help with smaller leaks.

Increase Ventilation

Open windows and doors to improve airflow and use fans and dehumidifiers to speed up drying. In Denver’s dry climate, natural air circulation can aid the drying process, but additional equipment may be needed for large-scale water damage.

Step 4: Salvage Belongings and Prevent Mold

After removing the water, focus on saving important belongings and preventing mold from spreading.

Separate Wet Items

Move furniture, rugs, and personal items to a dry area. Items like carpets, books, and upholstered furniture can quickly develop mold if not dried properly.

Disinfect Affected Areas

Use a disinfectant to clean walls, floors, and other surfaces exposed to water. Mold can start growing within 24-48 hours, especially in humid or poorly ventilated areas.

Step 5: Contact a Professional Restoration Service

Even if you’ve taken all the necessary steps, professional assistance is often needed to ensure thorough cleanup and repair.

Why Hire Experts?

Water damage restoration professionals have the equipment and expertise to assess damage, remove excess moisture, and prevent long-term issues like mold and structural deterioration.

Choosing a Local Service

If you're in Denver, selecting a restoration service familiar with the local climate and common water damage issues can make a significant difference. Professionals understand regional challenges, such as rapid weather shifts and high-altitude conditions that affect drying times.

How Can Accountable Home Services Help You?

At Accountable Home Services, we specialize in fast, reliable water damage restoration to help you get your home back to normal as quickly as possible. Whether your property has been damaged by water due to flooding, pipe leaks, or unexpected weather conditions in Denver, our experienced team is ready to assist. We provide professional water extraction, drying, and mold prevention services to protect your home and belongings.



Visit us at 1347 E 73rd Ave, Denver, CO 80229, or call us at (720) 620-3272 for immediate assistance. Our trained experts are available to assess your situation, provide a customized restoration plan, and help you restore your property with minimal disruption.