Flood Damage Cleanup: What to Do Before Help Arrives
When floodwaters rise, so does the panic. Whether it's from a burst pipe, backed-up sewer, or storm surge gone rogue, flood damage can throw your day and your property into chaos.
While calling in a professional restoration team is always your best move, there are a few smart, safe steps you can take while you wait for help to arrive.
Here’s what to do and what to avoid during those first crucial hours after a flood.
First, Safety First
Flooded areas aren’t just messy; they can be dangerous. Before you do anything:
Turn off power: If it’s safe to access your breaker box, turn off electricity to the affected area. Water and electricity are not friends.
Avoid contaminated water: Floodwater can contain sewage, chemicals, and debris. Don’t wade in unless you’re wearing protective gear.
Watch for structural damage: Don’t enter rooms with sagging ceilings, warped floors, or walls that look unstable.
When in doubt, wait outside or in a safe part of your property until the pros arrive.
Document the Damage
Before you start moving anything, take pictures and videos of everything. This includes:
Water levels in each affected area
Damaged furniture, flooring, walls, and belongings
The source of the flooding (if you know it)
This documentation helps support your insurance claim and gives restoration teams like Ultrawest Restoration a clear picture of what you’re dealing with for the flood damage cleanup.
Minimize Damage (Safely)
Once it’s safe to do so, you can take small steps to reduce damage:
Remove valuables: Pick up important items like electronics, photo albums, and heirlooms and anything that isn’t already soaked.
Lift furniture: Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs to help prevent further water absorption.
Mop or blot excess water: If you can do so safely, gently remove standing water with mops or towels. (Skip the shop vac unless you’re sure it’s rated for water.)
Avoid throwing away damaged items just yet as your insurance adjuster may need to see them.
Call Early, Act Fast
Time matters. The longer water sits, the more damage it causes and the greater the risk of mold and contamination. Calling Ultrawest Restoration right away ensures:
Rapid response from trained crews
Specialized equipment to extract water and dry your property properly
Professional documentation to streamline your insurance process
You’ve got enough on your plate, so let us take the flood damage cleanup off your hands.
What Not to Do
While waiting for help, resist the urge to:
Use household fans: They’re not powerful enough to dry soaked materials and can blow contaminants around.
Rip up carpets or drywall: This can release harmful spores or contaminants if not done properly.
Assume it’s dry just because it looks dry: Moisture can linger behind walls, under flooring, and in insulation.
Ultrawest Restoration: Your Go-To Flood Damage Cleanup Team
We know how stressful a flood can be. That’s why we show up fast, work efficiently, and treat your property with care. Whether you're dealing with a few inches or a full-blown basement flood, Ultrawest Restoration is here to get you back on track quickly, safely, and professionally.
If you’re in Quesnel, Prince George, Williams Lake, or 100 Mile House, Ultrawest Restoration is here to help—every step of the way!
