What to Do Immediately After Water Damage
Water damage is one of the most common — and most stressful — emergencies a homeowner can face. Whether it's a burst pipe, appliance failure, or storm damage, the first few minutes after discovery are critical. What you do (and don't do) in those moments can mean the difference between a manageable repair and a catastrophic loss.
Step 1: Shut Off the Water Supply
The very first thing you should do is locate and shut off your main water valve. In most San Antonio homes, this is located near the water meter at the front of the property or in the garage. Turning off the water stops the flow and prevents additional damage while you assess the situation.
Step 2: Turn Off Electricity to Affected Areas
If water is near any electrical outlets, switches, or appliances, turn off the electricity to those areas at your breaker box. Water and electricity are a dangerous combination. If you're unsure which breakers control which areas, it's safer to turn off the main breaker entirely.
Step 3: Document Everything
Before you start cleaning up, take photos and videos of all damage. This documentation is essential for your insurance claim. Capture the source of the leak, affected walls, floors, ceilings, and any damaged personal property. Time-stamped photos are particularly valuable.
Step 4: Remove Valuables from the Area
Move furniture, electronics, documents, and other valuables away from the water. Place aluminum foil or plastic under furniture legs that can't be moved to prevent staining. If water is on the floor, avoid walking through it with shoes that could track contamination to other areas.
Step 5: Call a Professional Restoration Company
Do not attempt to handle significant water damage yourself. Professional restoration companies like AST have industrial-grade equipment for water extraction, structural drying, and moisture detection that goes far beyond what household tools can accomplish. We respond 24/7 and can be on-site within 60 minutes in the San Antonio area.
What NOT to Do
The Bottom Line
Water damage is an emergency that requires immediate action and professional intervention. By following these steps — shutting off water, turning off electricity, documenting damage, and calling AST — you can minimize damage and start the restoration process quickly. Our IICRC-certified technicians are available 24/7 at (210) 599-9726.