1. Make Safety Your First Priority
- Turn off electricity at the breaker if water is near outlets.
- Wear rubber boots and an N-95 mask around contaminated water.
- If floodwater entered from outdoors, assume bacteria are present.
2. Stop the Source & Remove Excess Water
- Shut off the main valve or have the utility do it.
- Begin emergency water removal with wet/dry vacs while waiting for a pro.
- Quick extraction dramatically lowers Temecula water damage repair bills.
3. Call an IICRC-Certified Firm—Fast
Five Star Restoration’s IICRC certified teams arrive within 60 minutes, bringing truck-mount extractors, high-velocity air movers, and desiccant dehumidifiers for rapid structural drying. Acting early saves drywall, hardwoods, and furniture.
4. Document Everything for Insurance
Shoot video of every room.
Photograph the burst pipe cleanup area, water lines on walls, and damaged contents.
Save receipts for hotel stays under Additional Living Expenses.
5. Start Mold-Prevention Measures
Keep air movers and dehumidifiers running 24/7.
Schedule a post-drying inspection—mold prevention is easiest now.
Why 24 Hours Matter: FEMA data show a 2-inch flood in a 2,000 sq ft home can jump from $21 k to $45 k in losses if mitigation waits a single day.
FAQs
Q: How soon must I notify my insurer?
File within 24 hours; most policies require “prompt notice.”
Q: Are household fans good enough?
Box fans help but lack the airflow and humidity control of professional gear.
Q: Will insurance cover mold that appears later?
Usually only if you mitigated quickly; delays risk claim denial.
References
FEMA: Cleaning Up and Drying Out Your Home After a Flood
IICRC: S500 Standard for Professional Water Damage Restoration
Insurance Information Institute: Water Damage and Insurance
