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Juanita Bay Water ResponseWater Damage Help · Kirkland, WA

Emergency Storm Damage Response: What Pros Do First

Last updated October 25, 2026

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The short answer

Stop the Water First

The first thing the pros do is stop more water from coming in. They may tarp a damaged roof, board up a broken window, or seal a gap in the siding. This is the emergency tarping step, and it is critical to prevent further damage.

In many cases, you can do a temporary fix yourself, like placing a bucket under a leak or covering a hole with a tarp. But for safety, especially with tall roofs or downed power lines, wait for the pros. They have the right equipment to work safely at heights and around hazards.

Remove Standing Water

Once the water stops entering, the pros remove any standing water. They use pumps and wet vacuums to extract water from floors, carpets, and low areas. This step is time-sensitive because standing water can soak into walls and subflooring, leading to structural damage.

The faster water is removed, the less damage your home suffers. If you have a few inches of water, you can start mopping or bailing while you wait for help. But always turn off the electricity at the breaker if water is near outlets or appliances, and only if it is safe to do so.

  • Turn off power at the main breaker if safe
  • Move valuables and furniture to higher ground
  • Document damage with photos and notes
  • Keep children and pets away from water
  • Open windows to increase airflow
  • Wear rubber boots and gloves for protection

Dry Out the Structure

After extracting water, the pros focus on drying. They set up industrial fans, dehumidifiers, and heaters to pull moisture from the air and building materials. This helps prevent mold growth, which can start within 24 to 48 hours.

Drying is not a quick fix. It can take days or weeks, depending on how much water soaked in. The pros monitor moisture levels in wood and drywall to know when it is truly dry. You can help by opening windows and running household fans, but do not use central heating if the walls are wet.

Document the Damage

The pros take photos and notes of all damage as they work. This documentation is important for your insurance claim. They also help you identify what can be saved and what must be thrown away, such as soaked insulation or contaminated items.

You should also document damage yourself, including taking photos before any cleanup begins. Keep receipts for any emergency supplies you buy, like tarps or buckets. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Check your policy and contact your insurance company early in the process.

Prevent Further Issues

Finally, the pros take steps to prevent secondary damage. This includes setting up dehumidifiers to reduce moisture, removing wet carpet to prevent mold, and covering openings with plastic sheeting. They may also recommend a water damage inspection to assess hidden issues.

Mold is a common concern after storms. If you see mold or smell a musty odor, you may need a mold professional. The pros can advise on the next steps, but they focus on the initial water removal and drying. Acting quickly is your right defense against long-term damage.

  • Remove wet carpets and padding
  • Discard soaked drywall and insulation
  • Clean and disinfect surfaces that got wet
  • Keep records of all actions taken
  • Monitor for mold growth over the next weeks

Water damage does not wait

Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.

Call Now (425) 406-3256

Frequently asked questions

How quickly should I call for help after a storm?

Call as soon as it is safe. Water damage worsens every hour, and mold can begin within a day. The sooner the pros start, the more they can save. Even a few hours of delay can increase the cost and extent of the damage.

Can I do the cleanup myself?

You can handle small, contained spills, but after a major storm, the pros are better equipped. They have industrial drying equipment and know how to dry behind walls. Attempting DIY cleanup with large water damage can lead to hidden mold or structural issues.

What should I do while waiting for the pros?

Turn off the power if safe, move valuables to a dry area, and take photos of the damage. Do not enter rooms with standing water if the power is on. Keep the area ventilated by opening windows, and avoid touching anything that might be contaminated.

Call Now (425) 406-3256