Water Damage Response Protocol for Property Managers

The very first step in any water damage event is to stop the flow of water. If a pipe burst or a supply line failed, locate the main shutoff valve and turn it off. For a roof leak, place a bucket under the drip and cover furniture or flooring with plastic sheeting. If the leak is from an appliance, unplug it if safe.

If you cannot find the shutoff or the source is outside, such as a broken sprinkler or a clogged gutter, call a plumber or a roofer right away. Do not wait. Every minute of active water flow increases the damage. You can also move furniture and rugs to a dry area while you wait for help.

Once the water is off, begin drying the area as soon as possible. Use towels or a wet vacuum to remove standing water. Open windows and use fans to circulate air. Remove wet carpets and rugs if you can, and hang them outside. Move furniture off wet flooring and place aluminum foil or wood blocks under legs to prevent staining.

For serious water intrusion, such as flooding from a broken pipe, the pros will bring industrial dehumidifiers and air movers. They can also assess hidden moisture in walls and under floors. Acting quickly reduces the chance of mold growth and structural damage. If you live in Kirkland, keep your shutoff valve location written down for future emergencies.

• Turn off the main water supply if possible.
• Move electronics and important documents to a dry place.
• Remove wet area rugs and upholstery.
• Use fans and dehumidifiers to dry the air.
• Take photos of all affected areas before cleanup.
• Call your insurance company as soon as possible.

After the pros have dried the area, you still need to follow up. Check for any remaining damp spots, especially in corners and closets. Replace any wet insulation and drywall that cannot be saved. For stains on ceilings or walls, you may need stain removal and repainting. For wood floors, refinishing might restore them.

Keep records of all communications with your insurance company and the pros. Follow their advice on what to keep and what to discard. If mold has already started, you may need a mold professional to handle remediation. Regular maintenance, like checking hoses and seals, can prevent future incidents. The mild marine climate with wet winters and dry summers in your area means leaks can happen at any time.